Do Directed Energy Weapons exist in the real world? The existence of directed energy weapons (DEWs) is supported by several pieces of evidence, including:
1. Official acknowledgement
Governments and military organizations worldwide have publicly acknowledged the development and deployment of directed energy weapons. For example, the United States Department of Defense has confirmed the existence of laser-based directed energy weapons, such as the High Energy Laser Mobile Demonstrator (HEL MD) and the Tactical High Energy Laser (THEL).
2. Technology demonstrations
Numerous public demonstrations of directed energy weapons have showcased their capabilities. For instance, the THEL system successfully destroyed multiple rockets and mortar rounds in flight during U.S.-Israeli tests. Similarly, the U.S. Navy tested a laser weapon called LaWS (Laser Weapon System) aboard the USS Ponce, demonstrating its ability to destroy drones and disable small boats.
3. Declassified documents
Over the years, some previously classified documents related to directed energy weapons have been declassified. These documents provide insights into past research, development, and testing of DEWs. An example is the declassification of the Air Force’s 1984 “Directed Energy Weapons: Technology Applications” report, which discusses various aspects of DEWs.
4. Patent filings
Numerous patents related to directed energy weapons have been filed by governments, militaries, and private inventors. These patents describe specific technologies and applications related to DEWs, providing indirect evidence of ongoing research and development in the field.
5. Academic research and publications
Scientists and engineers have published research papers on directed energy weapons in reputable journals and conferences, discussing theoretical concepts, experimental results, and current capabilities. These publications contribute to the overall body of evidence supporting the existence and advancement of DEWs.
Summary
While the existence of directed energy weapons is substantiated by the above evidence, the full scope and capabilities of such weapons are most likely not disclosed publicly due to national security concerns.
