[Lt-Col A. Tack]

This concept seems awfully similar to the Zeus hummer already in service.

ZEUS-HLONS (HMMWV Laser Ordnance Neutralization System)

ZEUS uses a a 10-kilowatt(kW) solid-state heat capacity (SSHC)laser beam to heat target ordnance to the point of causing the explosive filler to ignite and starts to burn. Therefore it does not depend on the type of fusing the specific ordnance uses. The resulting neutralization causes a low-level explosion that minimizes collateral damage.

It has demonstrated the capability to engage targets from 25 to 300 meters away, as long as they are in line of sight. The Zeus system can be fired up to 2,000 times a day.

The ZEUS-HLONS system offers a roll-on roll-off capability that is C-17 and C-130 transportable. It is also helicopter sling certified.

...

Over its test and deployment history, ZEUS has eliminated more than 1,600 ordnance items of 40 different types with more than a 98% success rate.

In March 2003, ZEUS was deployed to Afghanistan for 6 months to demonstrate its countermine capabilities in a combat environment (Operation Enduring Freedom). It was used at Bagram Air Base and neutralized more than 200 munitions (including 51 in one 100 minute period) of 10 different types. At the time, the ZEUS-HLONS system was a 1/2 kilowatt laser.

In early 2004 the system was upgraded to a 1-kilowatt laser and then by late 2004 to a 2-kilowatt Yb:glass fibre-laser that is diode-pumped and operates in quasi-CW mode. This significantly reduced the overall system weight (removing about 2,000 pounds) and provided increased output beam power, which equates to extended range.

In January 2005, at the IQPC's Directed Energy Weapons conference in London. Gerald Wilson said the system takes between 5 seconds and 4 minutes (typically 30 seconds) to destroy a mine. Resulting in a clearance rate of up to 25 explosives per hour when equipped with a 0.5 kW laser.

On March 16, 2005, ZEUS was deployed to Iraq to assist in explosive ordnance disposal activities there as part of a three-vehicle convoy protection concept.



Wikipedia Link