In the late 70s - early 80s of the last century, the USSR actively worked on the creation of the first and only Soviet laser pistol. Outwardly, it resembles a firearm. However, instead of live ammunition, the laser pistol magazine stores disposable flash bulbs.
Glittering swords, deadly blasters and powerful cannons that instantly incinerate all living and nonliving. All of this was first shown to the general public in the fantastic Star Wars trilogy directed by George Lucas. But few of the spectators then knew that it was in the military space laboratories of the United States and the USSR at that time that laser space weapons were being actively developed.
In the late 70s - early 80s of the last century, the USSR actively worked on the creation of the first and only Soviet laser pistol. It was developed by a scientific group under the command of Major General Viktor Sulakvelidze.
The Soviet laser pistol really looks like a firearm. And even has characteristic components: barrel, grip, safety, magazine. The latter, however, contains not live ammunition, but disposable flash lamps that synthesize a laser beam.
The power of this weapon is low. The energy of the beam was enough to damage the eyes of the enemy at a distance of up to 40 meters. But at a closer distance, it was possible to make holes in the suit. And this means depressurization and instant death. The creators of the laser pistol claim that it never got into space. And according to historians who have studied the secret archives, this weapon nevertheless traveled beyond the borders of the Earth and was even successfully used. But be that as it may, the laser pistol did not go into mass production. It became clear that it was unlikely that an astronaut would have to fight in outer space, as in the movie epic by George Lucas, in the near future.
Promotional video:
Lina Davydova