The Marines are replacing the “mini-green” laser with an upgraded version of the hail and warning system that integrates laser range finding and allows troops to better target individuals with the laser to avoid lethal encounters.
The laser, known as Glare Recoil and dubbed the LA-22/U by the Marine Corps, is a dazzling laser that uses “laser range finding, near-field detection and a 3-axis gyroscope” as part of its safety controls, according to a B.E. Meyers & Co. news release.
Those features allow the laser to detect objects or people in the proximity of the beam and then self-adjust the power output to maintain eye safety while still warning the target, according to the release.
The Marines have plans to acquire 1,056 systems this fiscal year and another 597 next fiscal year. They expect initial operational capability by February, with full operational capability across the Corps by October 2021, according to Marine Corps Systems Command.