Active Denial System Deters Subject Without Harm

NIJ is leveraging a less-lethal technology developed by the U.S. Department of Defense for use in law enforcement and corrections. The technology, called the Active Denial System, causes subjects to experience intolerable discomfort. It makes them stop, turn away, and exit the area.

How the Active Denial System Works

The Active Denial System emits electromagnetic radiation (radiofrequency waves) at 95 GHz. The system stimulates nerve endings and causes discomfort but does not cause permanent injury—the radiation penetrates less than 1/64th of an inch into a person's skin. Symptoms dissipate quickly when the device is turned off or the person moves away from the radiation beam.

No Long Term Effects

The Department of Defense tested the device on more than 10,000 human subjects. Persons hit with the device show no lasting or extreme medical symptoms, even when hit in the eyes. The human body's instinctive reactions to this stimulation make subjects turn away to escape the area.

Creating a Prototype for Law Enforcement

NIJ has created a solid-state version of this device as a small working prototype of the larger military device that law enforcement and correction officers can carry.