BAE Systems develops non-lethal anti-pirate device

According to reports from the ICC’s International Maritime Bureau (IMB), piracy is increasing worldwide, with 430 attacks reported last year, up from 406 in 2009.

As pirates increase their range of operations and their capabilities, commercial shipping agents are increasingly looking for ways of preventing attacks whilst avoiding armed guards on their ships.

BAE Systems recently conducted a study of pirate’s behaviour and a company-wide capability survey, which led to the development of the concept of using a non-lethal laser, which would leave only temporary effects, to distract and deter potential attackers from a distance.

Leveraging the capability of its Optics & Laser Technology department within its Advanced Technology Centre, BAE Systems‘ researchers conducted a number of experiments to assess the feasibility of laser distraction as a non-lethal weapon.

The laser beam provides a visual warning to pirates at distances greater than 2km, and of disorientating attackers sufficiently at lesser distances so that weapons cannot be targeted effectively. At all times the power levels of the laser remain eye safe.

Roy Evans, BAE Systems capability technology lead for laser photonic systems, said: "The effect is similar to when a fighter pilot attacks from the direction of the sun. The glare from the laser is intense enough to make it impossible to aim weapons like AK47s or RPGs, but doesn’t have a permanent effect."

The laser was trialled during night and day in varying weather conditions. Cameras were placed at the target location to demonstrate the level of beam intensity and divergence produced by the test runs. Beam oscillation techniques were also demonstrated.

The researchers have developed a bespoke Neodymium Yttrium Aluminium Garnet (Nd:YAG) laser that is an effective deterrent at relatively low power levels. By using targeting systems and changing beam patterns, the distraction effect can be made more pronounced and be used against multiple targets.

While the trials prove that the laser works during the night and in in full daylight, Evans points out that there are many more requirements to be met before a non-lethal laser weapon can be placed on commercial ships.

When fitted on commercial ships, the laser distraction system could use its own targeting capability or integrate with existing ship radar and sensor systems to control the direction and power of the beam. It could therefore work semi-autonomously, and would also include security features to ensure it could not be used by pirates if they boarded the ship.