US: New rifle-mounted laser weapon to disrupt drones in combat zones

A US defense firm, NUBURU, has achieved a proof-of-concept milestone for a portable rifle-mounted laser weapon designed to disrupt hostile drones using non-kinetic directed-energy technology. The system, developed by NUBURU’s subsidiary Lyocon, employs a laser dazzler that emits multiple light beams across green, blue, and infrared wavelengths to interfere with drone sensors and cameras, impairing their visual navigation without physically destroying the UAVs. This lightweight, compact platform integrates with standard military small arms and offers adjustable power output and beam control, enabling rapid deployment in NATO-compliant operational environments. The development addresses the growing threat posed by low-cost commercial and tactical drones, which increasingly endanger frontline troops, vehicles, and critical infrastructure. As drone threats escalate, defense agencies worldwide are accelerating efforts to procure portable counter-UAV solutions capable of neutralizing these threats in real time. NUBURU’s modular directed-energy system aims to provide a scalable, adaptable, and non-lethal method for protecting personnel and