Raytheon is developing a version of its Active Denial System that can be fired from helicopters, according to New Scientist. The magazine reports the Air Force plans to increase the budget for the pain-inducing microwave-based weapon from $2 million to $10 million a year.
“The transmitting antenna on the current system is 2 metres across, produces a single beam of similar width and is steered mechanically, making it cumbersome. At the heart of the new weapon will be a compact airborne antenna, which will be steered electronically and be capable of generating multiple beams, each of which can be aimed while on the move.”
In March, Raytheon project manager John Finkenauer told me the defense contractor was developing a version of the system small enough for a soldier to use in the field.
After the jump, watch 60 Minutes’ report on the ADS from June 2008.
Posted by Brendan Lynch
Tags: 60 Minutes, Active Denial System, ray-guns, Raytheon
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