HLONS
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HLONS stands for Humvee Laser Ordinance Neutralization System, which is a system mounted on Zeus humvees. HLONS uses a laser that fires a 10 kw solid-state laser from a humvee in an attempt to explode an explosive, such as an anti-tank mine or an anti-personal mine from a safe distance in order to prevent it from harming the humvee.
The system was a co-created by Sparta Inc. and NAVEODTECHDIV (Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technology Division).
[edit] Operation
HLONS uses two lasers to explode enemy ordinances. One is a green laser used to designate the target. A joystick is used to control the laser and guide it to the target. The second laser, a high-powered, invisable laser, heats up the target ordinance until it explodes. The second laser is an industrial strength laser normally used to cut metal.
HLONS, in theory, would save combat engineers from being forced to approach a roaside bomb or other unexploded ordinance and explode it with convention explosives. It also proves useful
[edit] Military Use
HLONS enabled, Zeus Humvees have experienced use in two major campaigns. The Zeus Humvees were deployed to Afghanistan to support Operation: Enduring Freedom. The system was successful in exploding more than 200 dangerous explosives.
The HLONS system was put in use again in Iraq during the Second Iraq War. Zeus Humvees are part of a three-vehicle convoy protection concept. However, there has been much difficulty in introducing it, because, despite its abilities, there are some who don't believe it is worth its pricetag.
