Electronic Weapons: March 4, 2003

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One problem with commando operations is the use of short range radio communication between members of the team. Against well equipped opponents, the radio signals may be picked up or jammed. To deal with this, the U.S. Air Force has developed a short range (one kilometer) laser that transmits voice or data. The transmitter is the size of a small flashlight and the receivers weigh eight ounces and are the size of a tape cassette. Since the data is transmitted via the laser beam, it cannot be overheard or jammed.