Free Republic

TUCSON, Ariz., Jan. 9, 2007 /PRNewswire/ -- Raytheon Company (NYSE:RTN) successfully tested a prototype solid-state laser weapon that combines the proven capabilities of the Phalanx weapon system with the power and effectiveness of lasers to defeat rockets, mortars and missiles at an operationally significant range. The prototype solid-state Laser Area Defense System (LADS) successfully detonated 60-millimeter mortars at a range greater than 550 yards within the tactical timeline in static ground testing conducted in partnership with the United States government. This government-industry team accomplished these groundbreaking prototype tests in less than six months. The LADS demonstration used a proven, existing,...

Gun-control laws, like all ill-advised measures, have unintended, often unfortunate, consequences. This is especially true in the post-Sept. 11, 2001, environment.Recently, Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge upgraded the nation's alert status because of credible intelligence that several financial buildings in New York City; Newark, N.J.; and Washington, D.C. - including the building housing the New York Stock Exchange - are intended terrorist targets. Immediately, heavily armed, submachine-gun-toting government agents surrounded the buildings - five in all - and tightened security in the area. Police closed streets, rerouted traffic, established checkpoints and searched vehicles in the vicinity.What about other potential...