Spatiotemporal Hybrid Open Optical Terminal for Enhanced Relay (SHOOTER)
Abstract
SHOOTER is a late FY 2023 new-start project that will address gaps in multi-user secure, low-signature mission data information transport between airborne and Mid- and High-Altitude Platforms (HAP) and “at the halt” ground and expeditionary users. Current implementations of point-to-point free space optics (FSO) technology makes it difficult to aggregate nodes to service multiple users. SHOOTER will demonstrate a network of novel multi-user optical terminals to rapidly connect distributed forces in relevant operational environments. The optical spectrum does not require host nation frequency coordination, and the infrared bands greatly reduce blue force detectability. Access to optical spectrum increases the survivability and lethality of our distributed forces when they are operating in hostile and contested environments. This technology demonstration will accelerate deployment of a multi-user capability by three to five years.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2025
- Source ID
- 97b683498eb5e6c288498cdf8a240dcb