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 will leverage the knowledge gained in the Navy Laser Family of Systems (NLFoS) efforts: - Alternative Laser Sources for higher powers, also known as the Ruggedized High Energy Laser (RHEL) activities; - Solid State Laser Tech Maturation activities that provides initial key enabling technical solutions in high power lasers and beam control, and will provide opportunities for single ship operational and sustainment learning; - Surface Navy Laser Weapon System Increment 1 (SNLWS Inc. 1) project that provides the initial combat system integration and installation knowledge for Aegis platforms, and multi-ship battle force operations knowledge; - Optical Dazzling Interdictor Navy (ODIN) that provides Counter-ISR technical and fleet operational knowledge. This leveraged knowledge and new HELCAP technical solutions to the C-ASCM problem will enable a fully informed decision to rapidly field an integrated, fleet ready, HEL Weapon. HELCAP activities include assessment, development, and experimentation associated with lethality, advanced beam control, and laser sources being conducted with advanced technology development (BA 03) funds under PE 0603801N Innovative Naval Prototypes (INP) Advanced Technology Development, as well as technology integration to support automated laser weapon control in "integrated detect to defeat demonstrations" conducted within this program element (PE).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2020
- Source ID
- aa23dc5eb10d5cac934e5e80cfff0544