CNN reports Pentagon approval for heat ray testing ahead of potential border use

The Pentagon has authorised the Department of Homeland Security to test a heat ray and develop tactics for potential use at the southern US border, CNN reported, citing a document signed by Pete Hegseth.

The department is being loaned an Active Denial System for seven months and may request an extension. The approval concerns testing and developing tactics, rather than a report that the system has already been used to disperse people.

According to the US military's description, the system directs an electromagnetic beam over roughly 800 metres, producing a burning sensation on the skin. Officials have described a subsequent tingling effect lasting up to 15 minutes.

The military briefly sent the system to Afghanistan around 20 years ago but did not use it in combat. It also decided against using it for crowd control at military facilities holding detainees, CNN reported, citing a source.