The top admiral of the US Navy, Adm. Daryl Caudle, believes that laser weapons are crucial for dealing with inexpensive drones that pose a threat to naval operations. In his opinion piece, he pointed out that using expensive missiles to shoot down cheap drones is not a sustainable strategy. Instead, he advocates for using lasers and other directed-energy weapons as a more cost-effective solution. Lasers can help preserve valuable missile stocks by targeting low-cost threats, allowing the Navy to save their expensive interceptors for more serious dangers. However, developing effective laser systems is complicated, as they rely on adequate power and cooling systems on ships. Adm. Caudle noted that recent conflicts have shown how quickly the Navy can run out of high-value missiles when facing numerous drone threats. He emphasized that while lasers are not a perfect solution, they represent a practical step towards better defense capabilities. The Navy has been testing laser weapons for years and has seen some success in using them against drones. Overall, the admiral suggests that lasers should be part of a layered defense strategy, used alongside traditional missile systems, to better prepare the Navy for future challenges.
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