Active Denial System

The Active Denial System (ADS) is a directed-energy weapon or "pain ray" developed by the U.S. Military. The weapon is non lethal and works by sending out high-energy electromagnetic radiation that causes extreme pain, but reportedly no lasting damage. The U.S. Government hopes the weapon will be ready for deployment by 2010, when it will be used to control crowds and force armed soldiers to surrender their weapons.

Fast Facts

1. Heats the skin to 130 degrees Fahrenheit
2. Can be used at a range of 500 yards
3. Unveiled on January 24, 2007
4. 600 volunteers have been exposed to the ray more than 10,000 times
5. Rays cannot penetrate buildings
6. Cost $60 million to develop

Effects

The weapon consists of a dish antenna that can be mounted on a Humvee and has a range much greater than other methods of non-lethal crowd control. The invisible ray delivers heat waves that can penetrate through thick clothing into the outer layers of skin and produce a sensation that has been compared "a blast from a hot oven." Once a target moves out of the weapon's range, the burning sensation ceases.

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