UK to develop microwave-based crowd control system
The Times: The Home Office has been investigating the use of high-tech pain rays against mobs as an alternative to the water cannon, according to a report by its Scientific Development Branch due to be published next month.
The so-called active denial system (ADS) projects microwave-like radiation for distances of more than 500 yards, creating an excruciating, full-body burning sensation in anyone caught in its beam. The millimetre-wave rays penetrate skin to a depth of about 1/64in but cause no permanent damage, according to Raytheon, the system’s US-based maker.
Comments
I applaud the efforts of researchers to develop non-lethal restraint technologies.
With the ubiquitous proliferation of firearms, the pop-culture emphasis on strength training and martial arts, attempts at control of large crowds can become dangerous and police in such situations are much more likely to open fire on unrulely and out of control rioting crowds if they do not have any other means to control or deter the rioters.
Such technology should not be feared but rather applauded. I am an avidly pro-life conservative Catholic and I personally feel that such technology falls well within the bounds of philosophies that respect the dignity of all human life at any stage of its existence. It is much more respectful of human life to deter aggression via mild pain then to open fire on protesters with lethal force.
Posted by: James M. Essig | June 27, 2008 5:12 PM