UK's MoD to deploy sonic weapon for London Olympics security

London, May 12 (ANI): The UK's Ministry of Defence has said that a device that can be used as a sonic weapon will be deployed during the London Olympics.

The MoD confirmed that the device was among a broad range of assets and will be used by the armed forces to provide security during the Olympics, The Telegraph reports.

The American-built long-range acoustic device (LRAD) can be used both as a high-powered loud speaker and to emit an ear-piercing beam of sound.

A spokesman said it would be used primarily in 'loud hailer mode' to issue verbal warnings to any boats on the River Thames that caused fear.

"As part of the military contribution to the police-led security effort to ensure a safe and secure games, a broad range of assets and equipment is being used by our armed forces," the MoD spokesman said.

"This includes the LRAD which will be deployed during the Olympic Games primarily to be used in the loud hailer mode as part of the measures to achieve a maritime stop on the Thames," he added.

The LRAD can emit a highly directional beam of sound at a pain-inducing 150 decibels.

The device was also used by the US Army to control crowds in Iraq. (ANI)