The laser can track objects as small as a dime traveling at 62 mph from a distance and has enough power to burn through steel.ADF's debut directed-energy weapon, the Fractl Portable High Energy Laser, can burn through steel and track dime-sized objects moving 62mph from a mile away.The system, which was also claimed to be the world’s most powerful portable, high-energy laser, was tested in May at the country’s Puckapunyal range, one of its army training facilities.
The beam, as small as a dime, can target critical drone components such as the rotor, wiring, and camera, enabling the retrieval of the device for forensic analysis and operational insights. According to ADF, using an index finger, the operator can quickly switch aim between the drone’s video camera, center mass, or one of the propellers. It takes only seconds to disable the camera and two or three seconds to incapacitate the rotor.
AIM claims that Fractl is one-tenth the size and cost of other laser systems available on the market, making it one of the most capable and cost-effective solutions for drone defense.During the demonstration, the system’s deployable prototype showcased its capabilities by ‘hard killing’ a drone at 500 meters. Although the laser’s effectiveness is limited by its power supply, it has previously engaged drones at 0.62 miles .