Directed Energy Test
Abstract
Directed energy weapon technologies are transitioning rapidly into acquisition programs and Joint Concept Technology Demonstrations. DoD is exploring the military utility and suitability of these weapons. A robust capability to assess directed energy weapons is essential to understand how and when to best employ directed energy in warfighting applications, including the operational capability to utilize directed energy systems to perform counter improvised explosive device (C-IED) operations. Such assessments will depend upon knowledge acquired through the test and evaluation (T&E) of these technologies and testing of operational concepts. Associated weapon technologies, primarily consisting of High Energy Lasers (HEL) and High Power Microwaves (HPM), are outpacing supporting test technologies. HEL and HPM advancements have created a new class of weapon systems in which energy is placed on a target instantaneously. Traditional test techniques for evaluating conventional munitions (with flight times ranging from seconds to minutes) are not sufficient for the T&E of these types of systems. Consequently, new technology solutions are needed to ensure that adequate developmental, live fire, and operational test capabilities are available when directed energy programs are ready to test. DoD directed energy system and component testing requires three principal assessments: (1) energy or power on target; (2) the effects on the target; and (3) the propagation of the directed energy to the target through the atmosphere. In addition, the vulnerability of DoD systems to HPM and HEL threats needs to be characterized in accordance with MIL-STD-464B. Current test capabilities do not provide the detailed data required to understand directed energy system performance and effects. The T&E/S&T Directed Energy Test technology area is developing the technologies necessary for quantitative assessment of HEL and HPM performance, as well as the vulnerability of DoD weapons system to directed energy threats.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Project
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2012
- Source ID
- 5_0603941D8Z_3_0400_PB_2012
Related Documents
- Root: Test and Evaluation/Science and Technology
- Child Accomplishment: Directed Energy Test