|
Rapid Equipping Force helps Soldiers with a bright idea: laser pointers
The US Army Rapid Equipping Force (REF) at Fort Belvoir, Va., is expediting the first shipment of 2,000 new laser devices to Soldiers in Baghdad, Iraq. No, they are not the sophisticated weapon systems one would expect. This is a green laser pointer.The eye-safe lasers, popular in boardrooms and classrooms across the United States, proved to be a visual and non-lethal way of dissuading aggressive drivers in Iraq. "The system was very effective in stopping oncoming traffic and personnel, said Spec. Loren Williams, based in Iraq, who routinely used the device. How does it work? This green pointer is about 50 times brighter than the familiar red laser pointer. Its unusual color makes it much more noticeable. Unlike a red laser, the projected green beam can be seen in mid-air in dark conditions. The laser is handheld, operates on standard batteries, and works at standoff distances. Its unknown how one of the devices first landed in the hand of an inventive soldier, but leaders say troops have historically discovered field expedient and innovated ways to accomplish missions on the battlefield. In the past, the bright spotlights shined at a driver did little to dissuade erratic behavior. In traffic control points throughout Iraq, hundreds of cars pass closely by U.S. and Iraqi soldiers. At times, these vehicles approach at aggressive speeds or without headlights at night. According to field reports, aggressive driving has been reduced 60 to 80 percent of the time when the devices are used. In support of ongoing mission in Iraq, the U.S. Army continues to observe soldier innovations at the tactical level, and spread those innovations across the force. Based on Soldier feedback and observing operational use, the REF is working with vendors to make improvements for future spirals. Posted by: Anonymoose 2006-02-11 |
| http://www.rantburg.com/poparticle.php?ID=142274 |