Directed-energy weapon
From Halopedia, the Halo wiki
Directed Energy Weapon is a term used to refer to a broad range of weaponry that use energy directed in some manner rather than projectile ammunition.
Lasers
- Main article: Laser
Lasers are standard armament on Covenant warships, and equipped to UNSC Prowlers, used for precision strikes and for point-defence, intercepting fighters and missiles attacking the ship.
Plasma
- Main article: Plasma Torpedo
The Covenant also utilise a type of superheated plasma, contained and guided by a controlled magnetic field, for extremely damaging strikes against UNSC targets, such as warships or glassing a conquered planet. Plasma is also used in the majority of Covenant small-arms, such as the Plasma Pistol, Plasma Rifle, Plasma Grenade and Fuel Rod Cannon.
Particle Beam Weapons
- Main article: Energy Projector
- Main article: Beam Rifle
The Covenant also use accelerated particles as weaponry, such as the devastating capitol-ship mounted Energy Projector and the infinitely smaller Type-50 Sniper Rifle System. These weapons use charged or neutral particles, and may appear similar to lasers though the differences are extensive.