HIGH ENERGY LASER TECHNOLOGY
Abstract
This project investigates and develops advanced technologies for High Energy Laser (HEL) weapon systems to enable more efficient lasers with greater power output. This includes technologies to support development of alternate laser sources; precision optical pointing and tracking components; adaptive optics to overcome laser degradation due to atmospheric effects; and thermal management systems to remove excess heat. In addition, this effort conducts laser lethality testing and analysis against a variety of targets and investigates the impact of low-cost laser countermeasures. Solid State Laser (SSL) efforts continue to leverage other funds provided by the HEL Joint Technology Office (JTO), the Air Force, and the Navy to develop multiple technical approaches that reduce program risk and maintain competition. Work in this project is related to, and fully coordinated with, efforts in PE 0602890F (HEL Research) and PE 0603924F (HEL Advanced Technology Program), PE 0605605A (DOD High Energy Laser Systems Test Facility (HELSTF)), PE 0602120A (Sensors and Electronic Survivability), PE 0603004A (Weapons and Munitions Advanced Technology) Project L96, and to PE 0603005A (Combat Vehicle and Automotive Advanced Technology) Project 441. The cited work is consistent with the Director, Defense Research and Engineering Strategic Plan, the Army Modernization Strategy and the Army Science and Technology Master Plan. Work is performed by the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC), in Huntsville, AL, the U.S. Aviation and Missile Research, Development, and Engineering Center (AMRDEC) in Huntsville, AL, and the High Energy Laser Systems Test Facility (HELSTF), at White Sands Missile Range, NM.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Project
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2012
- Source ID
- 042_0602307A_2_2040_PB_2012
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