The Q-switched laser enables numerous mid-IR applications in light detection and ranging (LIDAR), optical sensing, and materials processing. Operating at an eye-safe wavelength, the fiber laser can also be used to generate 3-5 µm mid-infrared (mid-IR) radiation for environmental monitoring and IR countermeasures applications, or be used as a seed laser for high-power amplification. It opens up new application possibilities that require a pulsed, high-peak-power source.