US defence firm Lockheed Martin has developed a laser that can knock out the engine of a small truck from more than a mile away.
The ground-based weapon is called ATHENA, or Advanced Test High Energy Asset.
In the first field test of its kind, the truck was put on a platform with its engine running to keep the scenario as accurate as possible.
The makers say the fibre laser weapon system prototype took only a few seconds from launch to burn through the engine.
Lockheed bosses expressed satisfaction with the result, saying it has also worked in demonstrations against small airborne and sea-based targets.
“Fibre-optic lasers are revolutionising directed energy systems,” said chief technology officer Keoki Jackson.
“We are investing in every component of the system – from the optics and beam control to the laser itself – to drive size, weight and power efficiencies.
“This test represents the next step to providing lightweight and rugged laser weapon systems for military aircraft, helicopters, ships and trucks.”
