US Navy successfully test laser weapon

 Fox News:

The U.S. Navy on Wednesday released dramatic photos from a demonstration of a high-energy laser weapon system that "successfully engaged" a floating target during a test in the Gulf of Aden.

The laser was test-fired from the USS Portland, a San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock, which previously used the laser in May 2020 to destroy a drone, which was considered a first-of-its-kind test of such a weapon, USNI News reported.

The Navy took to Twitter to post futuristic infrared images that showed the laser training on its target. Another image showed sailors in a control room presumably wearing protective glasses.
...

The system tested on Tuesday could be used to counter bomb-laden drone boats deployed by Yemen’s Houthi rebels in the Red Sea.

The Houthis have deployed drone boats into the Gulf of Aden, which can be piloted remotely and sent up to a target before detonating. These boats are suspected of being built with Iran’s help.

There are some photos at the link above.

I suspect the weapons can also be used against larger craft and aerial craft.   

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