Directed Energy Technology
Abstract
This program covers research in directed energy (DE) technologies, primarily high energy lasers (HELs); including devices, optical beam control and integration; and high power electromagnetics (HPEM). Laser research includes moderate to high power laser devices that are applicable to a wide range of Air Force applications, optical technologies to propagate laser beams from a device, and integration of these technologies. In HPEM, this research examines technologies for applications such as counter-electronics and non-lethal weapons. Research into other novel DE applications will be conducted. DE vulnerability/lethality assessments are conducted and protection technologies are developed. Research into other advanced non-conventional/innovative weapons will be conducted. Tools are developed and used to compare solutions and to determine the most effective and efficient DE technologies to meet Air Force needs. This program also performs ground-based optical research for space situational awareness (SSA). In SSA, this research uses the Starfire Optical Range and the Maui Space Surveillance System to develop and implement technologies to identify visual characteristics such as status and health of orbiting space objects. Efforts in this program have been coordinated through the Department of Defense (DoD) Science and Technology (S&T) Executive Committee process to harmonize efforts and eliminate duplication. In FY 2018, a portion of HQ AFRL S&T civilian manpower in PE 0602605F, Directed Energy Technology, was transferred to PE 0602298F, Science and Technology Management - Major Headquarters Activities, to provide increased transparency to Congress on personnel in Major Headquarters Activities (MHA). This program is in Budget Activity 2, Applied Research because this budget activity includes studies, investigations, and non-system specific technology efforts directed toward general military needs with a view toward developing and evaluating the feasibility and practicality of proposed solutions and determining their parameters.
Document Details
- Document Type
- R2 Budgetary Justification
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2018
- Source ID
- 0602605F_2_3600_PB_2018
- Change Summary Explanation
- Increase in FY 2016 reflects reprogramming for Air Dominance activities and to support Research and Development Projects, 10 U.S.C. Section 2358. Increase in FY 2018 due to realignment of funds for Laser Weapon System priorities.
- Service Agency Name
- Air Force
Entities
Organizations
- United States Air Force
Related Documents
- Child Project: Lasers & Imaging Technology
- Child Accomplishment: High Energy Laser Technologies and Directed Energy Assessments
- Child Accomplishment: Optical Space Situational Awareness and Satellite Vulnerability
- Child Project: Advanced Weapons & Survivability Technology
- Child Accomplishment: HPEM and Unconventional Weapon Technologies
- Child Accomplishment: HPEM Effects and Mitigation Research