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Philippines Deploys Sonic Weapons in South China Sea
17 Apr
Summary
- Philippine navy deployed sonic weapons on a patrol ship.
- Weapons combine sound, light, and laser to deter threats.
- Deployment marks the first use in the contested South China Sea.
The Philippines has deployed advanced sonic weapons, known as Long Range Acoustic Devices (LRADs), on its offshore patrol vessel BRP Rajah Sulayman in the South China Sea. This marks the first instance of such a deployment by the nation in the disputed territory. The installed Multirole Acoustic Stabilized Systems (MASS), supplied by an Italian company, are designed to deter enemies through a combination of disorienting sound, bright light, and laser beams.
The MASS system can emit a warning sound up to 3,000 meters and a high-intensity deterrent sound within 2,000 meters. At closer ranges, within 125 meters, the weapon can inflict pain and potentially cause permanent hearing damage, raising concerns from human rights organizations.
This strategic deployment is seen as a measure to counter escalating tensions in the South China Sea, an area with a history of confrontations. The Philippines plans to expand the use of these multi-role sonic and laser-based weapons across its patrol fleet operating in the region.
