Science & Tech Spotlight: Directed Energy Weapons
"Directed energy weapons (DEW) use concentrated electromagnetic energy to combat enemy forces and assets. These weapons include high-energy lasers and other high-power electromagnetics".
US Government Accountability Office: “Directed energy weapons—such as lasers—use energy fired at the speed of light. These weapons can produce a force that ranges from deterrent to damaging, to destructive. Many countries, including the U.S., are researching their use.