➀ The British Army successfully employed Raytheon's High-Energy Laser Weapon System (HELWS) from an armored vehicle to destroy flying drones for the first time. ➁ The HELWS, mounted on a Wolfhound vehicle, completed a live-firing exercise at a military range in Wales. ➂ The system, developed in collaboration with the MOD's Defence Equipment & Support and Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, represents a significant advancement in defense technology.

The semiconductor laser market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9% from 2023 to 2029, expanding from $3.1 billion to over $5 billion. Growth is driven by the expansion of laser applications, shifts towards energy efficiency, compact size, and precision, and integration with multiple technology platforms. The telecom and infrastructure segment is the largest market, while the consumer market is expected to grow at a 1% CAGR to reach $1.75 billion in 2029. Moderate growth in the consumer segment is due to the decline in optical sensing applications, while significant expansion in the automotive segment is anticipated, especially in China.

➀ Researchers from Osaka University, Japan, have developed a compact, tunable-wavelength blue semiconductor laser for far-ultraviolet (UV) light generation; ➁ The laser utilizes a periodically slotted structure within nitride semiconductors, offering a practical solution for disinfection; ➂ This innovation could enhance public health by maintaining cleaner, safer indoor environments.

➀ Transtelestial has developed a laser technology that transmits data at speeds comparable to fiber optics without the need for physical fiber. ➁ The company's CENTAURI device ensures stable laser beam transmission over long distances and in various weather conditions. ➂ T-Mobile tested Transtelestial's laser communication at Coachella, successfully providing 5G connectivity to festival attendees.