View source for Engineering:Long Range Acoustic Device

{{Missing information|non-loudspeaker / anti-personnel uses and hearing damage|date=June 2019}}
[[File:soundweapon1.jpg|thumb|right|A LRAD on top of a New York City police Hummer.]]

The '''Long-Range Acoustic Device''' ('''LRAD''') is an [[Engineering:Acoustic hailing device|acoustic hailing device]], sound cannon and [[Physics:Sonic weapon|sonic weapon]]<ref name="Kesslen2019"/> developed by Genasys. Law enforcement organizations and the manufacturer claim that LRAD systems are primarily designed for long-range communications;<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.lradx.com/application/ |title=Long Range Acoustic Device Industry Applications - Public Safety & Security Solution |website=Lradx.com |access-date=26 June 2019}}</ref> however, the device has an extremely high [[Physics:Decibel|decibel]] capacity and is controversially used as a less-lethal weapon for crowd control. The Academy of Doctors of Audiology states that 'Individuals exposed to weaponized LRAD use at the 2009 G20 Summit experienced mild traumatic brain injuries, permanent hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), eardrum perforation (holes), ear pain, dizziness, and disorientation.'<ref>{{cite web |title=Crowd Control with Long Range Acoustic Devices Can Cause Permanent Hearing Loss |url=https://www.audiologist.org/item/crowd-control-with-long-range-acoustic-devices-can-cause-permanent-hearing-loss |website=Academy of Doctors of Audiology |access-date=13 September 2021}}</ref>

According to the manufacturer's specifications, the systems weigh from {{convert|15|to|320|lb}} and can emit sound in a 30–60° beam at 2.5&nbsp;kHz.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=E0kUYUOtG0AC&pg=PA65 |page=65 |last=Corbett |first=Peter |title=A Modern Plague of Pirates |isbn=978-0-9562107-0-8 |year=2009}}</ref> The manufacturer also produces systems for public address and mass notification use that broadcast 360°.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.lradx.com/product_categories/lrad_mass_notification_systems/ |title=LRAD Genasys Public Safety Notification Systems Archives |website=Lradx.com |access-date=26 June 2019}}</ref>

LRAD systems are used by law enforcement, government and defense agencies, as well as maritime and commercial security companies to broadcast audible notifications and warnings over distance. LRAD systems are also used to deter wildlife from airport runways, wind and solar farms, nuclear power facilities, gas and oil platforms, mining and agricultural operations, and industrial plants.

==Function==
[[File:LRAD-US-Navy.jpg|thumb|left|LRAD operator wearing hearing protection]]
The parameter "ka", which is the wave number multiplied by the speaker radius, is often used to characterize sound source directivity. For this source, ka=19 at 2.5&nbsp;kHz, and according to the LRAD data sheet, the beam angle of about 30 degrees total is what is predicted for a regular loudspeaker.<ref>Beranek, Leo L. 1986. Acoustics, p.132, [[Organization:American Institute of Physics|American Institute of Physics]].</ref>

Small spherical "point-source" acoustic devices follow the known inverse square law, which predicts the loss of 6 [[Physics:Decibel|decibel]]s (dB) per doubling of distance from the source, solely due to geometric spreading. Large speakers (or large arrays), such as these, have an interference pattern in the [[Physics:Near and far field|nearfield]] which produces peaks 6&nbsp;dB higher than the output pressure and nulls where the pressure is essentially zero.<ref name="Blackstock, David T 2000. p.456">Blackstock, David T. 2000. Fundamentals of Physical Acoustics, p.456, John Wiley and Sons.</ref> The larger the speaker, and the higher the frequency, the longer the effective nearfield. The nearfield for this device is approximately {{convert|8|m}}.<ref name="Blackstock, David T 2000. p.456"/>

[[File:USS Donald Cook.jpg|thumb|right|LRAD on a U.S. Navy ship]]

=== Risks ===
In addition to its "voice" feature, which acts as a loudspeaker, the LRAD has an "alert" feature, which emits loud chirping sounds that have been reported to cause pain and hearing damage.<ref name="Bondy2019">{{cite news |last1=Bondy |first1=Halley |title=How the LRAD Went From a Pirate Deterrent to a Police Crowd-Control Tool |url=https://www.thedailybeast.com/how-the-lrad-went-from-a-pirate-deterrent-to-a-police-crowd-control-tool?ref=scroll |access-date=7 June 2020 |agency=The Daily Beast |date=30 September 2019}}</ref> The LRAD is often considered to be a sonic weapon. The NYPD's LRAD use is being challenged in federal court.<ref name="Bondy2019" /><ref name="Kesslen2019">{{cite news |last1=Kesslen |first1=Ben |title=Plug your ears and run|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/plug-your-ears-run-nypd-s-use-sound-cannons-challenged-n1008916 |access-date=7 June 2020 |agency=NBC News |date=22 May 2019}}</ref><ref name="ACLUFactSheet">{{cite web |title=Acoustic Weapons Fact Sheet |url=https://www.aclu.org/fact-sheet/acoustic-weapons-fact-sheet |website=www.aclu.org |access-date=7 June 2020}}</ref> Due to potential risks and a lack of studies on the health impact of sonic weapons, the ACLU recommends that their use on protesters be suspended.<ref name="ACLUFactSheet" />

==Deployments & Uses==
===United States===
[[File:Long Range Acoustic Device 500X in New York City.jpg|thumb|An NYPD officer stands ready with the LRAD 500X at an Occupy Wall Street protest on November 17, 2011 near the city hall]]

An LRAD was present during protests of the 2004 Republican National Convention in {{wipe|New York City}}<ref>[https://abcnews.go.com/Technology/story?id=99472&page=1 ABC News. Technology & Science. August 25, 2004. Amanda Onion. ''RNC to Feature Unusual Forms of Sound: Unusual Forms of Sound to Emanate From RNC'']</ref> but not used.{{citation needed|reason=Micah White, founder of Occupy, claims that LRAD *was* used, in his book, The End of Protest|date=May 2016}}

LRADs were used by the Pittsburgh PD during protests at the G20 Summit in September 2009. This was the first time it was used during a protest in the U.S.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/25/us/25pittsburgh.html |title=Protesters Are Met by Tear Gas at G-20 Conference |first=Ian |last=Urbina |date=24 September 2009 |access-date=26 June 2019 |website=The New York Times}}</ref><ref>{{cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/thetwos#play/uploads/7/0SwBU1DOO_Q |title=thetwos |publisher=[[Company:YouTube|YouTube]]}}</ref>

LRAD was reportedly used<ref>{{cite news |last=Martin |first=Adam |title=Occupy Oakland's Tent City Is Gone |url=http://www.theatlanticwire.com/national/2011/10/occupy-oaklands-tent-city-gone/44092/ |access-date=26 October 2011 |newspaper=The Atlantic Wire |date=25 October 2011}}</ref> by the Oakland Police Department during the clearance of the Occupy Oakland encampment on the morning of 25 October 2011.

LRAD was present, but not used, when the New York City Police department cleared Occupy Wall Street protestors from Zuccotti Park on the morning of 15 November 2011.<ref name=nycoccupy>{{cite news |title=Occupy Wall Street: Police use military megaphone to amplify their point to protesters |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/occupy-wall-street-police-military-megaphone-amplify-point-protesters-article-1.979585 |work=New York Daily News |location=New York |date=18 November 2011 |access-date=15 February 2015}}</ref>

LRAD was deployed during a NATO march in Chicago on May 20, 2012, at Michigan Ave. & Cermack.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/nato-chicago-2012-151998815.html |title=As it Happens: NATO in Chicago |publisher=NBC Chicago}}</ref>

The Salisbury, MD Police Department acquired an LRAD in October 2013 with proceeds from their speed cameras.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wboc.com/story/23639955/salisbury-police-utlizing-new-lrad-system|title=Salisbury Police Utilizing New LRAD System|author=Bill Mich|date=8 October 2013|website=Wboc.com}}</ref>

St. Louis County police used LRAD during protests surrounding the police shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/st-louis-alderman-says-police-pulled-him-out-of-car/article_0806541b-ed48-5d06-9267-323531ad6cf1.html|title=DAY FIVE WRAPUP: McCulloch blasts Nixon for replacing St. Louis County Police control|date=August 14, 2014|periodical=St. Louis Post-Dispatch}}</ref> Reporter Mike Tobin commented while broadcasting from Ferguson, MO on 18 August, "It doesn't have the effect of crippling people. It's just loud, it's annoying, it lets you know something big and official is coming and that's what's happening now. They can also use it as a loudspeaker to tell people to get out of the way."<ref>[http://view.vzaar.com/2007295/video] {{dead link|date=June 2019}}</ref>

On December 5, 2014, the NYPD utilized an LRAD, notifying approximately 100 protestors to disperse, during the protest of the police killing of Eric Garner in Midtown Manhattan.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.alternet.org/news-amp-politics/video-nypd-uses-military-grade-sonic-weapon-eric-garner-protesters|title=Video: NYPD Uses Military-Grade Sonic Weapon on Eric Garner Protesters|website=Alternet.org}}</ref>

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina police obtained two LRAD systems through a federal grant in March 2015. Myrtle Beach police captain Marty Brown told the Myrtle Beach city council that "his department is getting the LRADs to enhance their communication capabilities be it with large crowds or for emergency announcements such as evacuation orders."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.myhorrynews.com/news/crime/bikefest/article_52ebdf98-ce44-11e4-858a-578602e5b8cc.html|title=Myrtle Beach police going high-tech for Bikefest|author=Tom O'Dare|date=19 March 2015|website=Myhorrynews.com}}</ref>

The NYPD used a Long Range Acoustic Device during the Baltimore solidarity rally in Union Square on April 29, 2015. An NYPD pickup truck equipped with an LRAD parked near protesters and broadcast a looped warning message about staying off the streets and not blocking the sidewalks.<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IQ996JYzFME|title=NYPD LRAD warning message for protesters 4.29.15|date=29 April 2015|publisher=[[Company:YouTube|YouTube]]}}</ref>

The New Jersey State Police used an armored-vehicle-mounted LRAD to communicate with crowds denied entry to a June 7, 2015 concert after they began throwing bottles and tried to rush the gates outside MetLife Stadium.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2015/06/police-deploy-tear-gas-on-crowds-outside-hot-97-summer-jam|title=Police Deploy Tear Gas on Crowds Outside of Hot 97's Summer Jam - Complex|author=Justin Davis|website=Complex.com}}</ref>

The Greensboro, NC Police Department (GPD) purchased an LRAD 300X and demonstrated it for reporters in November 2015. Captain Jonathan Franks with GPD says it can be used for alerts for everything from riots to missing children to weather disasters. "I am sure, positive, 100% that in certain instances it will be able to not only save one life but numerous lives," said Franks.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wfmynews2.com/story/news/2015/11/05/gpd-new-long-range-audio-technology-could-save-lives/75247202/|title=GDP: New Long Range Audio Technology Could Save Lives|author=Benjamin F. Powell|date=5 November 2015|website=Wfmynews2.com}}</ref>

Police in San Diego, CA used an LRAD on May 27, 2016 to order anti-Trump protesters to disperse.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IpPdZUeaCok|title=Police order anti Trump protesters to disperse|publisher=[[Company:YouTube|YouTube]]}}</ref>

Police from several agencies, including North Dakota state troopers, the National Guard, and other law enforcement agencies from surrounding counties and states deployed two LRADs to clear a protest camp and blockades along Highway 1806. "Long Range Acoustic Devices, which emit an ear-splitting whine, were used intermittently throughout the day" one reporter wrote.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Enzinna|first1=Wes|title=I Witnessed Cops Using Tear Gas, Rubber Bullets, and Sound Cannons Against Anti-Pipeline Protesters|url=https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2016/10/standing-rock-protests-pipeline-police-tasers-teargas|website=Motherjones.com|access-date=7 November 2016}}</ref> An LRAD was present again on 11/20/2016 at the bridge just north of the protesters camp on highway 1806.{{citation needed|date=November 2016}}

The Columbus, OH Police Department (CPD) demonstrated a Long Range Acoustic Device to the local media on November 21, 2016. CPD expects to use the device for crowd control, barricaded suspect operations, and to communicate to residents during emergencies and natural disasters.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://nbc4i.com/2016/11/21/cpd-demonstrates-new-crowd-control-device/|title=CPD demonstrates new crowd control device|author=Ted Hart|date=21 November 2016|website=Nbc4i.com}}</ref>

The Washington D.C. Metropolitan Police Department used a LRAD at the January 21, 2017 Women's March.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.muckrock.com/news/archives/2017/nov/20/dc-lrad/|title=Records show D.C. Police used an LRAD sound cannon to "direct crowd flow" during the Women's March|website=Muckrock.com|access-date=26 June 2019}}</ref>

On February 17, 2017, the Princess Anne Police Department deployed its LRAD system at the request of the Maryland State Police to disperse an unruly concert crowd on the campus of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Chief Tim Bozman of the Princess Anne Police Department said, "Its a very good piece of equipment for incidents like this."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.delmarvanow.com/story/news/local/maryland/2017/02/17/fight-cancels-concert/98052744/|title=UMES concert canceled due to unruly crowd|author=Henry Culvyhouse|date=17 February 2017|website=Delmarvanow.com}}</ref>

The Mendocino County (California) Board of Supervisors approved the purchase of a Long Range Acoustic Device for the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office on April 18, 2017. "Sheriff Tom Allman said the device will aid in searches for missing persons, most often hunters and mushroom pickers, which cost the county tens of thousands of dollars. Allman recalled the 2011 search for Aaron Bassler, who had been accused of murdering two men in Fort Bragg and led law enforcement officers on an intense manhunt in the Noyo Basin, saying the LRAD might have made that search a little easier. He said it could also be used to warn residents in case of a tsunami. Last year, MCSO was able to test an LRAD out of a low-flying plane along the coast, and it proved sufficient. He also said the LRAD could prove a valuable asset in a barricaded-person situation (a person hiding out from officers in a building) to communicate from the outside of the building, which has happened before".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.ukiahdailyjournal.com/general-news/20170418/new-loudspeaker-ensures-mcso-will-be-heard-loud-and-clear/|title=New loudspeaker ensures MCSO will be heard loud and clear|author=Ashley Tressel|date=18 April 2017|newspaper=Ukiah Daily Journal}}</ref>

The Phoenix, AZ city council approved the purchase of two LRAD 500X systems in November 2018. The speakers will “provide an ability for us to give clear and concise messages to groups of people whenever we find it necessary to communicate with them,” according to Sgt. Mercedes Fortune.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ktar.com/story/2300357/phoenix-police-pick-up-approval-95k-for-long-range-crowd-control-speakers/|title=Phoenix police pick up approval, $95K for long-range, crowd-control speakers|date=10 November 201|website=Ktar.com}}</ref>

Rochester NY police used verbal warnings and an LRAD to help disperse disorderly crowds during the August 2019 Puerto Rican Festival.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rochesterfirst.com/news/local-news/dozens-arrested-after-puerto-rican-festival/|title=Dozens arrested after Puerto Rican Festival|author=WROC Staff|date=19 August 2019|website=RochesterFirst.com}}</ref>

Police utilized a Long Range Acoustic device to declare an unlawful assembly in downtown Phoenix, AZ on May 28, 2020 during the George Floyd protests. Multiple announcements were made in English and Spanish.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://yourvalley.net/stories/protest-phoenix-over-death-man-minnesota-ends-arrests-property-damage,161847|title=Protest in Phoenix over death of George Floyd ends in arrests, property damage | website=YourValley.net}}</ref>

During the same period, the LRAD was used at a protest in front of the Arkansas State Capitol.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/lenarazzak/status/1268650920914620420|title=Video of protest with LRAD use|website=Twitter.com|access-date=4 June 2020}}</ref>

The Portland Police Bureau used a vehicle-mounted LRAD during the George Floyd protests on June 4, 2020 and on other occasions during the protests.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.oregonlive.com/portland/2020/06/portland-mayor-ted-wheeler-to-hold-news-conference-addressing-continued-protests-watch-live.html|title=Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler holding news conference about continued protests: Watch live|date=5 June 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=KEX |first1=1190 |title=Police Use Acoustic Device On Crowd |url=https://1190kex.iheart.com/content/2020-06-05-police-use-acoustic-device-on-crowd/?mid=410282&rid=61729961&sc=email&pname=newsletter&cid=kex-am&keyid=Local%20iHeart%20Daily%20(NewsTalk)&campid=headline1_readmore |website=1190 KEX Radio |publisher=iHeart Media |access-date=6 June 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.koin.com/local/multnomah-county/what-is-lrad-ppb-explain-their-sonic-tone-device/|title=What is LRAD? PPB explain their 'sonic tone' device/ |website=KOIN.com|date=6 June 2020 }}</ref>

The Seattle Police Department purchased an LRAD in response to claims that it did not adequately communicate orders to
demonstrators during the summer 2020 protests.<ref>https://www.seattle.gov/documents/Departments/OPA/ManagementAction/2020OPA-0741_2021COMP-0032_MAR_06-09-21.pdf</ref> SPD's use of its LRAD was alleged to have caused ear damage to a peaceful demonstrator, although an internal SPD review deemed the allegations to be unsustained.<ref>https://www.seattle.gov/documents/Departments/OPA/ClosedCaseSummaries/2020OPA-0741ccs053121.pdf</ref> 

A [[Engineering:Lenco BearCat|BearCat]] mounted LRAD was used to emit voice messages and high-pitched sirens in Kenosha, WI on August 24, 2020 in front of the Kenosha County Courthouse to disperse crowds assembled in Civic Center Park as part of the Jacob Blake protests.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Elijah|first=Koerri|date=August 24, 2020|title=Livestream of 24 August 2020 Jacob Blake Protests|url=https://www.facebook.com/KoerriElijah/videos/2771052506516169|access-date=August 25, 2020|website=Facebook|at=Timestamp 2:06:56}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=WGN TV|date=August 24, 2020|title=Scenes from Kenosha after shooting of Jacob Blake|url=https://www.facebook.com/7938522410/videos/1093022157761632/|access-date=August 25, 2020|website=Facebook|at=Timestamp 0:37:55}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/Julio_Rosas11/status/1298461448730021888?s=20|title=Kenosha Courthouse Protest|website=Twitter.com|access-date=26 August 2020}}</ref>

Rochester, NY police used a Long Range Acoustic Device to make announcements to protesters that they were unlawfully in the roadway and obstructing traffic on September 12, 2020. The device was also used at the September 16, 2020 protest in front of the Rochester city hall.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/2020/09/12/protests-rochester-ny-daniel-prude-11-straight-days-free-the-people-roc/5782445002/|title=Police use 'sound cannon' at Rochester protest; RPD says officers were hit with bottles, eggs|website=DemocratandChronicle.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/2020/09/16/rochester-ny-protest-blm-daniel-prude-demonstrations-september-16/5814241002/|title=Protesters arrested outside Rochester City Hall as police break up occupation|website=DemocratandChronicle.com}}</ref>

In September 2020 it was revealed that federal officials had explored the use of the device and the [[Engineering:Active Denial System|Active Denial System]] ("heat ray") to disperse civilians protesting outside the White House in June of that year, but had been advised that the National Guard was not currently in possession of either device.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/sep/17/us-military-police-heat-ray-blm-protesters-white-house-protesters|work={{wipe|The Guardian}}|title=US military police 'sought use of heat ray' to disperse White House protesters|date=September 17, 2020}}</ref>

Protesters at the June 1, 2020 Washington, D.C. George Floyd protests said police gave little or no warning before employing aggressive tactics against them. A 2015 settlement requires federal police to give large crowds several loud dispersal orders before deploying chemical irritants and other dispersion tools. Using an LRAD to issue loud protest dispersal orders would have complied with the 2015 settlement requirement.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2020/09/17/military-police-heat-ray-against-d-c-protesters-congressional-letter/3476175001/|title=National Guard major: Military police asked about using 'heat ray' against DC protesters|author=Savannah Behrmann|website=usatoday.com|date=September 17, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.npr.org/2020/09/11/911912921/protesters-were-supposed-to-hear-warnings-before-federal-police-moved-in-they-di|title=Protesters Were Supposed To Hear Warnings Before Federal Police Moved In. They Didn't|website=npr.org}}</ref>

The Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department purchased Long Range Acoustic Devices to improve the department's ability to issue dispersal orders clearly over long distances. The purchases resulted from the department's after-action report of the May 30, 2020 riot in downtown Cleveland.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cleveland19.com/2020/09/22/cuyahoga-county-sheriff-makes-changes-after-may-riot-downtown-cleveland/|title=Cuyahoga County Sheriff makes changes after May 30 riot in Downtown Cleveland |author=Julia Tullos|website=Cleveland19.com |date=September 22, 2020}}</ref>

After receiving feedback last summer from protesters who said commands from on-scene officers were not clear or loud enough, the Seattle, WA mayor's office recommended purchasing an LRAD.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://komonews.com/news/local/new-non-lethal-crowd-control-tool-seen-at-seattle-protest|title=Use of LRAD speaker by Seattle police for crowd control spurs questions, concern |author=Jonathan Choe|website=komonews.com/ |date=November 5, 2020}}</ref>

On March 6, 2021, the Boulder Police Department used a toned warble noise from an LRAD in an effort to disperse a crowd of up to 800 students from the [[Organization:University of Colorado Boulder|University of Colorado Boulder]]. The University Hill Incident occurred when code enforcement and members of Boulder Police’s Neighborhood Impact Team were unable to disperse partygoers who were congregating against Boulders public health order. LRAD was used after students and other partygoers began throwing rocks at SWAT vehicles and officers. <ref>{{cite web |url= https://bouldercolorado.gov/police/university-hill-disturbance-update|title=University Hill Disturbance Update |publisher=Boulder Police Department}}</ref>

On April 12, 2021, the Brooklyn Center, MN Police Department deployed a vehicle mounted LRAD outside of its headquarters to announce curfew violations and dispersal orders to a large crowd protesting the death of Daunte Wright.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://mehabe.com/2021/04/13/just-in-long-range-acoustic-device-lrad-deployed-in-front-of-blm-crowd-at-brooklyn-center-mn/|title=Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) deployed in front of #BLM crowd at Brooklyn Center, MN |publisher=mehabe.com/}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://twitter.com/disclosetv/status/1381772366368411650|title=Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) deployed in front of #BLM crowd at Brooklyn Center, MN|website=Disclose.tv}}</ref>

On July 3, 2021, Massachusetts State Police utilized an LRAD to secure a group of 11 suspects involved in the Sovereign Citizen movement. The group identified themselves as part of the "Rise of the Moors" movement, or "Moorish Americans". The self styled militia group was travelling between Rhode Island and Maine when an MSP trooper came across their convoy refueling. The group had multiple firearms in their possession, and admitted to not having proper carrying requirements. Several fled into the surrounding forest at which point the LRAD was deployed. The group was taken into custody without further incident. <ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-07-13|title=Wakefield police used sonic blast, a high-pitch alarm, to incapacitate Rise of the Moors suspects|url=https://www.masslive.com/news/2021/07/wakefield-police-used-sonic-blast-a-high-pitch-alarm-to-temporarily-disable-armed-rise-of-the-moors-suspects-chief-says.html|access-date=2021-07-13|website=masslive|language=en}}</ref>

===Czech Republic===
On June 26, 2015, Czech Special Forces Police may have deployed an LRAD 500X during anti-immigration and anti-Islam protests in Brno, the second largest city in the Czech Republic.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://policejnidenik.cz/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/DSC_00613-1024x702.jpg |title=Archived copy |access-date=2015-06-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150629202141/http://policejnidenik.cz/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/DSC_00613-1024x702.jpg |archive-date=2015-06-29 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://policejnidenik.cz/do-brna-se-kvuli-demonstracim-sjeli-policiste-ze-specialnich-poradkovych-jednotek-z-cele-republiky/|language=cs|title=Do Brna se kvůli demonstracím sjeli policisté ze Speciálních pořádkových jednotek z celé republiky|website=Policejnidenik.cz|date=June 26, 2015}}</ref>

Police in Prague used a vehicle-mounted LRAD on 17 November 2020 to repeatedly alert protesters on Wenceslas Square to follow COVID restrictions and wear masks.”<ref>{{cite web|url=https://tydenikpolicie.cz/v-centru-prahy-probehlo-k-vyroci-17-listopadu-nekolik-shromazdeni-i-pochodu-nejproblematictejsi-byl-ten-proti-vladnim-opatrenim/|title=V centru Prahy proběhlo k výročí 17. listopadu několik shromáždění i pochodů. Nejproblematičtější byl ten proti vládním opatřením|author=Týdeník Policie|date=18 November 2020|website=tydenikpolicie.cz}}</ref>

=== Germany ===
Bad Homburg's fire brigade and city police used an LRAD 100X system more than 60 times in the first half of 2020 for delivering COVID-19 information.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.feuerwehrmagazin.de/dm-native-advert/lrad-100x-flexibel-kraftvoll-und-hoechste-verstaendlichkeit|title=LRAD 100X, flexibel, kraftvoll und höchste Verständlichkeit|author=FM-Mediaservice|date=6 November 2020|website=feuerwehrmagazin.de}}</ref>

=== Greece ===
Hellenic Police acquired two LRAD systems to be used at the Evros border. These were tested after the March 2020 migrant crisis at the border, triggered by the Turkish government. They are to be used as a deterrent against illegal border entry, as a notification system, as well as to handle aggressive actions against the Hellenic Armed Forces.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-03-13|title=Επίδειξη συστήματος LRAD για αντιμετώπιση όχλων σε Ένοπλες Δυνάμεις και Σώματα Ασφαλείας|url=https://doureios.com/epideixi-systimatos-lrad-gia-antimetopisi-ohlon-se-enoples-dynameis-kai-somata-asfaleias/|access-date=2020-09-27|website=Δούρειος Ίππος|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=StavrosKaripidisPage|date=2020-09-26|title=Ηχητικά υπερόπλα στήνονται στα σύνορα του Έβρου από την ΕΛΑΣ σε συνεργασία με τον Στρατό (Και 4 νέα Drone)|url=https://xanthinews.gr/2020/09/%ce%b7%cf%87%ce%b7%cf%84%ce%b9%ce%ba%ce%ac-%cf%85%cf%80%ce%b5%cf%81%cf%8c%cf%80%ce%bb%ce%b1-%cf%83%cf%84%ce%ae%ce%bd%ce%bf%ce%bd%cf%84%ce%b1%ce%b9-%cf%83%cf%84%ce%b1-%cf%83%cf%8d%ce%bd%ce%bf%cf%81/|access-date=2020-09-27|website=Νέα, Ειδήσεις, Εκδηλώσεις στην Ξάνθη|language=el}}</ref>

===Japan===
Japan's Coast Guard used Long Range Acoustic Devices and other methods to expel a North Korean fishing flotilla from its waters in September 2017.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ftchinese.com/story/001074087/en |title=Japan coastguard expels North Korean fishing flotilla |website=Ftchinese.com}}</ref>

In February 2009, the Japanese whaling fleet operating in Antarctic waters near Australia installed LRADs on their vessels. The device was used against activists of the [[Organization:Sea Shepherd Conservation Society|Sea Shepherd Conservation Society]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.theage.com.au/national/whalers-attack-activists-at-sea-20090205-7z05.html |location=Melbourne |work=The Age |title=Whalers attack activists at sea |first1=Andrew |last1=Darby |date=February 6, 2009}}</ref> The Japanese fleet later escalated the use of LRAD, deploying it against a Sea Shepherd helicopter carrying a camera crew.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.seashepherd.org/matilda/video.html|title=Video - Operation Waltzing Matilda|author=Sea Shepherd Conservation Society USA|work=Operation Waltzing Matilda - Sea Shepherd Conservation Society|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100103231027/http://www.seashepherd.org/matilda/video.html|archive-date=2010-01-03}}</ref><ref>''[http://www.sundancechannel.com/sunfiltered/2009/02/sea-shepherd-battles-japanese-whalers-in-the-ross-sea/ Sea Shepherd Battles Japanese Whalers in the Ross Sea]'' - ''Sundance Channel'', 7 February 2009</ref> Sea Shepherd noted that they had an LRAD of their own, but as of early 2010, had not put it into use<ref name="STREET FIGHT">{{cite news| title= Street Fight on the High Seas| work=The New Yorker| date= 2010-01-12| url= https://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/newsdesk/2010/01/sea-shepherd.html | access-date= 2010-01-16}}</ref> other than to play a recording of "Ride of the Valkyries" in the manner of attacking U.S. Army helicopters depicted in the 1979 film ''Apocalypse Now''.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.underwatertimes.com/news.php?article_id=10742901358|title=Ride Of The Valkyries: Japanese Whalers Claim Sea Shepherd Harasses The Nisshin Maru With Classical Music|date=February 9, 2010|website=Underwatertimes.com|access-date=January 1, 2011|location=Tokyo}}</ref>

===Poland===
LRAD was present, but not used because of current legal regulations during protests in Poland, including Million Marijuana March 2011 and Marsz Niepodległości (National Independence Day March) 2011 and 2012. Lacking a way to utilize the LRADs purchased to their full potential sparked an investigation suspecting corruption behind their acquisition.  National Police Headquarters spokesman Mariusz Sokolowski defended the purchase of LRAD. He also stressed that the police decided to make this investment because, "We needed good sound reinforcement equipment. With numerous demonstrations and gatherings, police need a public address system that allows you to reach thousands of people."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rmf24.pl/fakty/polska/news-potezna-bron-sluzy-jako-zwykly-glosnik-policyjny-system-lrad,nId,768500|title=Potężna broń służy jako zwykły głośnik. Policyjny system LRAD pod lupą prokuratury|date=9 January 2013|language=pl|website=Rmf24.pl}}</ref>

Municipal police in Gdańsk, Poznań, Kołobrzeg and other cities in Poland are using LRAD systems to deliver COVID-19 notifications.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://krakow.wyborcza.pl/krakow/7,44425,25820364,radiowoz-z-naglosnieniem-jezdzi-po-krakowie-emituje-apel-o.html?disableRedirects=true&squid_js=false|title=Radiowóz z nagłośnieniem jeździ po Krakowie. Emituje apel o pozostanie w domach|author=krakow.wyborcz|date=25 March 2020|website=krakow.wyborcza.pl}}</ref>
<ref>{{cite web|url=https://tvn24.pl/pomorze/koronawirus-w-polsce-radiowozy-z-glosnikami-na-ulicach-apelujemy-zostan-w-domu-4423513|title=Radiowozy z głośnikami na ulicach|author=Mak Źródło|date=22 March 2020|website=tvn24.pl/}}</ref>

===Spain===
Local police in Leganés, Spain are using a vehicle-mounted LRAD to deliver alerts and notifications to residents during the country-wide COVID-19 lockdown. According to Citizen Security, Communication and local government spokesman, Oscar Oliveira, “Because the acoustic device can be heard inside of houses, we can inform older residents with mobility issues that all municipal resources are available through the Citizen Attention Service by calling 010.”<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.telemadrid.es/coronavirus-covid-19/Policia-Leganes-mensajes-vecinos-altavoz-2-2214698512--20200319121909.html|title=La Policía de Leganés lanza mensajes de voz a sus vecinos con un super altavoz|author=TeleMadrid|date=19 March 2020|website=telemadrid.es}}</ref>

===United Kingdom===
It was confirmed by the Ministry of Defence on May 11, 2012 that an LRAD would be deployed in London during the Olympics. It was spotted fixed to a landing craft on the Thames.<ref>{{cite news |title='Sonic weapon' deployed in London during Olympics |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-18042528 |work=BBC News |access-date=11 May 2012 |date=12 May 2012}}</ref>

==Mass notification==
===United States===
Menlo Park and Atherton, CA police and fire officials attended a 'sound off' between a siren installation and an LRAD 360XT mobile voice mass notification system in April 2018. "The side by side test was very helpful and everyone agreed that the LRAD system completely outperformed the older siren system," said Fire District Emergency Manager Ryan Zollicoffer. "Not only because of the voice capability, but the modular-mobility benefit is something that appeals to first responders because it can be used for a variety of public safety purposes and better moved around if that's needed or desired."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://patch.com/california/millbrae/s/gel5e/siren-vs-voice-mass-evacuation-systems-tested|title=Siren vs. Voice: Mass-Evacuation Systems Tested|author=Susan C. Schena|date=20 April 2018|work=Menlo Park-Atherton, CA Patch}}</ref>

The Menlo Park Fire District demonstrated its Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD) community notification system on April 18, 2019. The fire district also showed how the ShakeAlert system could eventually be tied together with its LRAD to provide area wide audible alerts for earthquake, flood, fire and other emergencies.  “ShakeAlert will notify and protect our Station firefighters, but we also believe coupled with the LRAD public address system, it can help to bridge the ‘notification gap’ as another important public safety tool and option for community early warning messaging for earthquakes as well as for fire and flooding information and evacuation signaling," said Fire Chief Harold Schapelhouman.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://inmenlo.com/2019/04/18/menlo-park-fire-demonstrates-early-warning-system-for-earthquakes-and-other-natural-disasters/|title=Menlo Park Fire demonstrates early warning system for earthquakes and other natural disasters|author=CONTRIBUTED CONTENT|date=18 April 2019|website=inmenlo.com/}}</ref>

The City of Laguna Beach, CA installed LRAD speaker sirens in 2018. The systems alert the downtown and Main Beach areas during an emergency where the public needs to take immediate action.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lagunabeachcity.net/news/displaynews.htm?NewsID=1678&TargetID=4|title=Tsunami Awareness Week 2018|website=lagunabeachcity.net}}</ref>

In June 2019, Mill Valley, CA became the first city in the Bay Area to replace its sirens with LRAD community notification systems. The combined siren loudspeakers receive emergency messages via satellite and have back up batteries if the power fails.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://abc7news.com/its-loud-mill-valley-installs-new-emergency-warning-system/5367234/|title='It's loud!' Mill Valley installs new emergency warning system|author=Cornell Barnard|date=27 June 2019|website=abc7news.com/}}</ref>

The Mill Valley Fire Department began testing its city's new LRAD installations on June 27, 2019. LRAD systems project both siren and voice recordings to alert and inform community members during large-scale disasters. The Long Range Acoustic Devices replaced siren-only systems in five Mill Valley, CA locations. "We believe that the purchase and installation of LRAD goes a long way to improve the resiliency and redundancy of our communication systems," Mill Valley Fire Chief Tom Welch said. "LRAD systems are highly effective in communicating warnings, instructions, and notifications throughout incident sites and over vast areas during life-threatening events."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://patch.com/california/millvalley/mill-valley-test-new-emergency-sirens|title=Mill Valley To Test New Emergency Sirens|author=Kristina Houck|date=27 June 2019|website=patch.com/}}</ref>

The City of Newport plans to spend $200,000 to replace three rusty tsunami warning sirens on the Balboa Peninsula with LRAD siren/public address systems. The LRAD systems are expected to be installed by the end of 2019.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.latimes.com/socal/daily-pilot/news/story/2019-08-20/newport-beach-to-replace-rusty-tsunami-warning-sirens|title=Newport Beach to replace rusty tsunami warning sirens|author=Hillary Davis|date=20 August 2019|website={{wipe|Los Angeles Times}}}}</ref>

In October 2020, Laguna Beach, CA tested its expanded outdoor warning system of 13 Long Range Acoustic Devices mounted on buildings throughout the city.  The solar-powered devices broadcast recorded evacuation messages in case cell service is disabled during a disaster<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.lagunabeachindy.com/laguna-beach-wildfire-mitigation-plan-still-a-work-in-progress/|title=Laguna Beach's wildfire mitigation plan still a work in progress|author=Daniel Langhorne|date=30 October 2020|website=lagunabeachindy.com/}}</ref>

==High Seas (Anti-Piracy)==
[[File:LRAD.JPG|thumb|right|LRAD on {{RMS|Queen Mary 2}}]]
On November 5, 2005, the luxury cruise ship ''Seabourn Spirit'' employed an LRAD to repel pirates who attacked the vessel with [[Engineering:Rocket-propelled grenade|rocket-propelled grenade]]s about 115&nbsp;km off the coast of Somalia.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/6664677.stm |work=BBC News |title=I beat pirates with a hose and sonic cannon |date=May 17, 2007 |access-date=May 11, 2010}}</ref> The effectiveness of this device during the attack is not completely clear, but the pirates did not succeed in boarding the vessel and eventually fled.

The Liberian vessel {{MV|Biscaglia}} was attacked on November 28, 2008. The security detachment aboard ''Biscaglia'' was reported to have used an LRAD device in an effort to repel attackers armed with [[Engineering:Assault rifle|assault rifle]]s and rocket-propelled grenades. Following a one-sided shootout, the ship was seized and the unarmed security contractors abandoned ship leaving the ship and crew to the pirates.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/africa/article5253731.ece |title=Login |website=Timesonline.co.uk}}</ref> The incident caused the usefulness of LRADs to be called into question by ''Lloyd's List''.<ref name=LL120208>David Osler, (2 December 2008). [http://www.lloydslist.com/ll/sector/piracy-and-security/article48918.ece "Sonic solution may not be a sound investment"], ''Lloyd's List''. London: Informa. Retrieved 13 April 2011.</ref>

In January 2011, the ''Spirit of Adventure'', a cruise ship sailing through the Indian Ocean, deployed an LRAD system as part of its defensive measures when being pursued by pirates.<ref name=Sloan2011>{{cite news |url=http://travel.usatoday.com/cruises/post/2011/01/pirate-cruise-ship-spirit-adventure-indian-ocean-saga/138838/1 |last=Sloan |first=Gene |title=Cruise ship blasted pirates with sonic wave |work=USA Today |date=January 17, 2011 |access-date=July 17, 2011}}</ref>

S/Y Hideaway used an LRAD in 2016 to deter suspected pirates in the Gulf of Aden.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/bc289e2b#/bc289e2b/55|title=Standoff|author=William Bruton|date=February 2017|website=Dockwalk.com}}</ref>

==Major Users==
* {{flag|Algeria}}: Used for the first time in April 2019 during the pacific walk against Bouteflika on the Algerian population
* {{flag|Australia}}: Victoria Police, the Western Australian Police, the South Australia Police, the Queensland Police Service and the Australian Federal Police have confirmed they have purchased the devices.<ref>[http://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/lawreport/australian-police-buy-up-on-sound-weapons/7419408/ Australian police authorities buying up sound weapons], ''The Law Report'', ABC Radio, May 17, 2016</ref>
* {{flag|Azerbaijan}}: Azerbaijan police<ref>[https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2013/03/this-pain-inducing-acoustic-device-used-to-control-crowds-in-azerbaijan-might-be-us-made/274036/ This Pain-Inducing Acoustic Device Used to Control Crowds in Azerbaijan Might Be U.S.-Made], The Atlantic, March 14, 2013</ref>
* {{flag|Brazil}}
* {{flag|Canada}}: Multiple police departments<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/montreal/201405/22/01-4768807-la-police-de-montreal-se-dote-de-canons-a-son.php|title=La police de Montréal se dote de canons à son|work=La Presse|date=22 May 2014}}</ref>
* {{flag|Czech Republic}}: Used first time on 18 March 2017 by the Police of the Czech Republic<ref>[http://www.denik.cz/z_domova/premiera-akusticke-zbrane-v-opave-sef-policie-odvedli-jsme-excelentni-praci-20170319.html Premiéra akustické zbraně v Opavě. Šéf policie: Odvedli jsme excelentní práci], Deník.cz (in Czech), March 19, 2017</ref>
* {{flag|Georgia}}
* {{Flag|Greece}}
* {{flag|Honduras}}
* {{flag|Hong Kong}}: Police Tactical Unit and Police Negotiation Cadre (PNC) of the Hong Kong Police Force
* {{flag|India}}: Delhi Police
* {{flag|Israel}}: Ministry of Defense
* {{flag|Japan}}
* {{flag|Norway}}: Norwegian Navy onboard Fridtjof Nansen-class frigates
* {{flag|Philippines}}: Philippine National Police,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sunstar.com.ph//article/404812/Business/Riot-police-level-up-defense-with-sonic-weapon|title=Riot police level up defense with sonic weapon|first=Third Anne Peralta-Malonzo and Keith|last=Calayag|date=14 November 2017|website=Sunstar|access-date=26 June 2019}}</ref> Philippine Coast Guard<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/MaxDefense/posts/827521567418502|title=MaxDefense Philippines|website=Facebook.com|access-date=26 June 2019}}</ref>
* {{flag|Poland}}: Polish Police (Polish Police have it but for legal reasons it's not used)
* {{flag|Romania}}: Used first time on 7 June 2015 by Jandarmeria Romana
* {{flag|Singapore}}: Used by the Singapore Armed Forces
* {{flag|South Africa}}: Used by the South African Police Service<ref>[http://ewn.co.za/2016/09/01/CSIR-confirms-legality-of-using-LRAD CSIR confirms legality of using LRAD units], EWN, September 1, 2016</ref>
* {{flag|Spain}}: Reported use by Catalan Police<ref>[=http://www.eldiario.es/politica/Centenares-personas-recorren-Madrid-Gamonal_0_219078935.html El Diario : News : Los mossos utilizan un cañón de sonido para dispersar a los manifestantes en Barcelona]</ref>
* {{flag|Sweden}}: Swedish Navy<ref>{{cite web|url=https://blogg.forsvarsmakten.se/operationatalanta/2013/04/27/mote-med-lokala-fiskare/|title=Möte med lokala fiskare – Operation Atalanta|website=blogg.forsvarsmakten.se|access-date=26 June 2019}}</ref>
* {{flag|Thailand}}
* {{flag|Turkey}}: Used by the Turkish Naval Forces
* {{flag|United Kingdom}}: Ministry of Defence
* {{flag|United States}}: Multiple police departments, US Navy, US Coast Guard and US Army
* {{flag|Vietnam}}: Being used on-board DN-2000-class ships of the Vietnam Coast Guard's fleet.

==See also==
* Megaphone

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
*[https://genasys.com/lrad-2/ Kontac LRAD Corporation Official website]
*[https://www.informts.com.au/long-range-acoustic-devices Australian website]

[[Category:Riot control weapons]]

ja:音響兵器#LRAD

{{Sourceattribution|Long Range Acoustic Device|1}}