High Energy Laser Counter ASCM Project (HELCAP)
Abstract
The High Energy Laser Counter ASCM Project (HELCAP) will expedite the development, experimentation, integration and demonstration of critical technologies to defeat crossing Anti-Ship Cruise Missiles (ASCM) by addressing the remaining technical challenges, e.g.: atmospheric turbulence, automatic target identification and aim point selection, precision target tracking with low jitter in high clutter conditions, advanced beam control, and higher power HEL development. HELCAP will assess, develop, experiment, and demonstrate the various laser weapon system technologies and methods of implementation required to defeat ASCMs in a crossing engagement. HELCAP activities in this project (0603801N) include technology assessments, laser lethality investigations, and advanced beam control. Component and Subsystem level operability is being conducted under this project specifically the Beam Control subsystem including active tracking and advanced atmospheric compensation using Adaptive Optics. The Beam Director subsystem testing will occur in a simulated environment (land based) against surrogate ASCM targets. Other subsystems being developed and tested under this project include the automated engagement sequencing, HEL targets and diagnostics subsystems, and an HEL interface compatible with a range of competing HEL source technologies. This project passes technology to follow on HELCAP activities under Program Element (PE) 0603925N Directed Energy and Electric Weapon Systems.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Project
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2025
- Source ID
- 2731_0603801N_3_1319_PB_2025
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