OVERVIEW: The 5P‑42 Filin is a Russian light-based dazzler system also described as a non-lethal electro-optic countermeasure designed to disrupt human vision and optical sensors at short to medium range (~5 km), protecting surface ships and vehicles from detection and targeting.

DETAILS: The 5P‑42, named “Filin” (Eagle‑Owl), was unveiled in December 2018 and entered service with the Russian Navy around February 2019. It emits powerful strobe-like or modulated infrared/visible laser beams that induce temporary flash blindness, disorientation, nausea, and dizziness. The system degrades the performance of night-vision goggles, laser rangefinders, optical sights, and ATGM guidance sensors in low-light conditions. Naval variants have been installed on Admiral Gorshkov class frigates with two units per ship and versions for ground forces and law enforcement are reportedly under development.

FUNCTION: Once activated, the Filin dazzler projects intense light pulses toward approaching personnel or sensors, overwhelming visual perception and optical detection systems. This causes temporary loss of aiming ability, sensor interference, and physiological effects, forcing attackers to miss shots or abort optical-guided attacks.

NOTE:
IOC: February 2019 (naval service entry)
Operators: Russia
Platforms: Admiral Gorshkov‑class frigates, Admiral Kasatonov; ground and vehicle installations in development
Conflict used in: No confirmed combat use; deployed in maritime patrol and security roles

SOURCE: Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/5P-42_Filin ; The Maritime Executive: https://www.maritime-executive.com/article/russian-navy-deploys-nausea-inducing-dazzler-on-frigates ; Deagel: https://www.deagel.com/Protection%20Systems/5P-42%20Filin/a003850