According to information published by cjr1321 on January 21, 2024, the US Navy has recently reinstalled the Optical Dazzling Interdictor, Navy (ODIN) laser system on the USS Spruance (DDG-111), an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer.
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Arleigh Burke class destroyer USS Spruance with ODIN laser in 2022. (Picture source: US Navy)
ODIN, a solid-state laser system, is designed primarily to counter and neutralize the sensors on UAS, effectively blinding them without destroying the aircraft. Technical aspects of the ODIN system include its ability to emit a high-intensity laser beam, targeting the optical sensors of enemy drones.
Congressional Research Service
The Congressional Research Service reported on February 14, 2024, about the US Navy's implementation of the Optical Dazzler Interdictor, Navy (ODIN) systems on eight Arleigh Burke class destroyers.
The first installation was on the USS Dewey in 2019. ODIN's purpose is to provide immediate shipboard counter-intelligence and surveillance against unmanned aerial systems (UAS) by disabling their sensors with lasers.
The FY2024 budget supports ODIN's development, aiming to improve its reliability and functionality. Initially approved in early 2017 due to an urgent request from the US Pacific Command, ODIN was developed by Naval Surface Warfare in Dahlgren, Virginia.
It represents the Navy's shift towards non-lethal countermeasures for UAS threats, emphasizing the development and operational testing of laser systems for future fleet-wide implementation.
USS Spruance
With a displacement of approximately 9,200 tons when fully loaded, the USS Spruance stretches to a length of about 509.5 feet and has a beam of 66 feet. Its propulsion system consists of four General Electric LM2500-30 gas turbines, generating a substantial 100,000 horsepower, which enables the ship to reach speeds exceeding 30 knots.
The armament on the USS Spruance is diverse, featuring systems capable of launching Tomahawk missiles for long-range strikes, Standard Missile-2 and Standard Missile-6 for air defense, and Evolved SeaSparrow Missiles for additional missile defense capabilities.
It also includes Harpoon missile launchers for targeting surface ships, a 5-inch naval gun for shore bombardment and surface threats, along with torpedoes for anti-submarine warfare. The ship is also equipped with close-in weapon systems like the Phalanx CIWS and SeaRAM for defense against more immediate threats.
Another key feature of the USS Spruance is its ability to operate two MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, enhancing its capabilities in anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and logistical support.
Central to its operational capabilities is the Aegis Combat System, anchored by the AN/SPY-1D(V) multi-function phased array radar, enabling the ship to track and engage multiple threats simultaneously.
