A growing protest movement in Serbia has turned violent, with demonstrators accusing police of using sonic weapons to disperse crowds. But what exactly are sonic weapons, and can they cause harm? Let’s break it down.
Sonic weapons like the Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) emit extremely loud sound waves that can be heard up to a kilometer away. These devices fire sound at a high-pressure rate, making them particularly effective in crowded areas. The closer you are to a sonic weapon when it’s fired, the stronger the pain you will experience.
The sound waves from LRAD can reach volumes of 150-160 decibels, which is much louder than a fighter jet engine taking off (130 decibels) or a normal conversation (60 decibels). Sounds above 120 decibels are uncomfortable to hear, while those above 140 decibels can cause pain.
Exposure to sonic weapons can lead to immediate symptoms like covering your ears and pain. Prolonged exposure can result in permanent hearing damage or tinnitus. The psychological impact of being attacked by an “invisible” force can also be significant.
Sonic weapons have been used in various contexts, including warfare and law enforcement. Native Americans used war drums to communicate over long distances, while the Nazi Luftwaffe used ram-air sirens during World War II. More recently, LRAD have been employed by police forces worldwide.
The use of sonic weapons without audible sounds or with low-pitched frequencies has raised questions about their effectiveness. The “Havana syndrome” incident in 2016 and 2017 saw US diplomats report hearing damage and other symptoms, but the cause was never conclusively determined.
As protests continue to unfold in Serbia, it’s essential to understand what sonic weapons are and how they can be used.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/serbia-protests-what-are-sonic-weapons/a-71960106