US Plans to Test Military Heat Ray That Makes Human Skin Feel Like It’s Burning

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been authorized by the Pentagon to test a military-grade heat ray weapon, known as the Active Denial System (ADS), for potential deployment along the US-Mexico border. This weapon uses invisible electromagnetic waves to create an intense burning sensation on human skin, designed to disperse people without physical contact, with the sensation lasting 10-15 minutes. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth signed the memo in September, allowing DHS to borrow the system for seven months starting in September 2026, to develop tactics for its use. This isn't the first time the weapon has been considered for border operations, with previous discussions in 2018 and during 2020 protests, though it was rejected then. The proposal has raised significant concerns regarding safety, legality, and potential risks to migrants, including forcing them into dangerous areas like rivers, with some officials questioning the need given declining border crossings.