Navy wants 'safer' bomb

Discussion in 'Blazers OT Forum' started by Colonel Ronan, Sep 10, 2010.

  1. Colonel Ronan

    Colonel Ronan Continue...?

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    There is no safe bomb.

    http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg20727776.200-us-navy-seeks-safer-bomb.html

    COULD a variable-yield bomb reduce the number of innocent people killed or injured during an air attack targeting enemy soldiers? That's the thinking behind a US navy plan to develop a "dial-a-blast" bomb.

    The navy is seeking proposals from companies to create a bomb weighing 200 kilograms that can either be detonated at full or reduced power. The idea is that the device could be loaded onto planes before a target has been identified, and the explosive power set by the pilot once a target is known. If there is a risk of killing civilians, then the explosive power can be reduced to ensure a small blast radius. In an unpopulated area the bomb, currently known as the Selectable Output Weapon, could be set so that it has the same power as a regular bomb of the same size. Carrying a single bomb would make it easier and cheaper for the navy to arm its planes.
     
  2. Natebishop3

    Natebishop3 Don't tread on me!

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    or they could just develop a laser and burn the house into a smoldering pile of ashes with no collateral damage.
     
  3. Colonel Ronan

    Colonel Ronan Continue...?

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    Or that bio bomb.
     
  4. BrianFromWA

    BrianFromWA Editor in Chief Staff Member Editor in Chief

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    Lasers are very power-consuming and the infrastructure needed to support it and its weight are prohibitive to flight operations.
    Then again, every shark deserves a warm meal.
     

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