Source: OptiDefenseA researcher from Ben-Gurion University in Israel built a laser system for shooting down autonomous drones that violate protected airspace.

The Light Blade laser defense system reportedly disables suspicious autonomous drones flying in sensitive areas using a laser, without risking the safety of nearby aircraft, thereby preventing the possibility of malicious acts conducted by drones.

The technology, which has been commercialized by defense tech company OptiDefense, boasts a several mile range and is reportedly safe for use, according to its developers, in crowded settings such as stadiums. The developers believe that the technology is even appropriate for use in and around airports without first having to clear the surrounding airspace due to the low intensity of the system’s associated lasers. As such, the lasers are reportedly “eye safe,” posing no threat to pilots or passengers.

Early tests of the Light Blade system conducted at Israel’s border demonstrated that the laser downed roughly 90% of the airborne incendiary devices reportedly launched at the system from Gaza.

Anti-drone technology is experiencing a surge in response to recent reports of suspicious drones encroaching on sensitive airspace at airports around the world. The technology is also being explored as a tool for use by military sectors.

Recently, a so-called Drone Dome from another Israel-based defense and security company has created a similar laser defense system for downing drones and drone swarms. Additionally, the U.S. Air Force and Lockheed Martin have completed testing on Athena, another laser-based anti-drone system, while a defense contractor in Russia reportedly built a drone equipped with a shotgun for shooting suspicious drones from the sky. Similarly, a researcher from Florida’s Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) built an autonomous system dubbed the Dronejacker, which relies on acoustic sensors to listen for and "highjack" approaching drones.

Watch the accompanying video, which appears courtesy of Ben-Gurion University, for more information on the Light Blade laser system.