Hands Up, Pirates!: The Navy's prototype laser could help counter small boat threats such as these suspected pirates, who were detained by the guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf in February 2009. U.S. Navy From Popsci.com:
There's no fricking laser beams attached to sharks, but Dr. Evil might still be jealous. The U.S. Navy wants to test a high-powered laser against the threat of small boats or even jet skis carrying RPG-wielding riders.
Northrop Grumman came away with the $98-million contract for the Maritime Laser Demonstration (MLD) in early July. Next up: installing a prototype of the laser on a ship and testing it on a remote-controlled small boat within the next 18 months.
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My Comment: Why spend the money when a 50 cal. would do just as well .... I guess the Navy has money to spend.