LRAD system

The US Navy has awarded a multi-year contract to LRAD systems to deliver long-range acoustic device (LRAD) 100X, LRAD 500X and LRAD 1000Xi systems.

The $1.98m order follows a recently awarded multi-year $12.2m firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery indefinite-quantity contract to deliver small, medium and large acoustic hailing devices (AHD) to the US Navy.

LRAD Corporation president and CEO Tom Brown said: "LRAD is the only AHD that meets all the rigorous specifications of the United States Navy."

LRAD systems are able to broadcas powerful deterrent tones and live or pre-recorded multi-language warnings, commands and instructions with clarity and a range up to 3,500m in anti-terrorism/force-protection missions.

The LRAD 100X is a self-contained, hand portable loud hailer and features a lightweight and compact wireless kit to enable wireless operation at ranges of up to 300m, with a lithium iron phosphate rechargeable battery to provide up to eight hours of operation.

Capable of operating in all-weather conditions, the LRAD 100X also features optimised driver and wave-guide design to ensure clear voice communication and support intent determination, while saving time for force escalation.

"The LRAD 100X features an optimised driver and wave-guide design to ensure clear voice communication."

In addition to providing long-range communications for military and security personnel, the LRAD 500X provides effective hailing and warning capability for small vessels and vehicles for the US Navy and the US Army respectively.

Designed for increased asset protection, the LRAD 1000Xi features a Shure model 577B microphone, green laser dazzler, auxiliary connector and ship-rail mount, as well as objective gunner protection kit (OGPK) for vehicle mounted operations.

Currently, more than 60 nations including US and international naval forces and other military and security organisations have deployed the LRAD systems to create large standoff zones, unequivocally determine intent, resolve uncertain situations peacefully.

Deliveries of LRAD systems to the US Navy are scheduled to be complete before 30 September.


Image: An LRAD system deployed aboard the USS Typhoon, stationed at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, US. Photo: courtesy of TheKMan.

Defence Technology