**Russian Military Unveils Man-Portable Laser Gun for Mine Clearance**
The Russian military has introduced a new man-portable laser system aimed at safely neutralizing mines and unexploded ordnance from distances of up to 100 meters. This innovative weapon was featured in a report by Zvezda TV, the military's official media outlet, on Sunday.
The newly developed laser gun is a smaller variant derived from a larger system initially designed for remotely controlled small ground vehicles. During the report, Zvezda showcased both the man-portable version and the larger variant, alongside various modules intended for the tracked Kurier platform, which is gaining traction within the Russian military.
The man-portable laser gun operates using a backpack-style battery pack and is equipped with a 1-kilowatt laser. It has been demonstrated to effectively burn through plastic casings within seconds, provided the operator maintains a steady aim. The report highlighted that optimal results are achieved when the weapon is mounted on a tripod, enhancing stability and precision.
In contrast, the larger variant of the laser system boasts twice the power of the man-portable model. It features a projector mounted on a retractable lifting platform, allowing operators to fire the laser from behind cover. This design not only improves stability but also extends the operational range of the laser to up to 500 meters, according to the developers. Both the rover-mounted module and the man-portable gun have entered serial production, indicating a move towards broader deployment within military operations.
The operational principle of this laser bomb-disposal system involves igniting the explosives contained within the targeted munition, effectively burning them without triggering a detonation. This capability is particularly crucial in high-risk environments, where the presence of booby traps equipped with advanced sensors poses significant threats to bomb-disposal specialists and conventional robots.
In addition to the laser systems, the Zvezda report showcased other modules developed for the Kurier platform. Notably, one of these modules is equipped with a drill, designed to prepare holes for poles that support anti-drone nets over roads in conflict zones. This reflects a broader trend in which both Russian and Ukrainian forces are exploring new applications for remotely operated vehicles, increasingly utilizing them for combat, resupply, medical evacuation, and military engineering tasks.
The introduction of the man-portable laser gun represents a significant advancement in the capabilities of the Russian military, particularly in the realm of ordnance disposal. As conflicts evolve, the need for innovative solutions to ensure the safety of personnel in hazardous environments continues to drive technological development in military applications.