Lasers have long been considered a technology that could give rise to a new RMA. As a December 2007 Defense Science Board on directed-energy weapons (DEW) observed, lasers promise to be a transformational “game changer” in military operations. To date, though, the only high-energy laser program of record, the Airborne Laser (ABL) for boost phase missile defense, continues to experience delays. ABL is a large chemical laser on a modified 747 platform. Although offering megawatt-class power, chemical lasers are too unwieldy and logistically fragile for “tactical” applications on fighter aircraft, ground combat vehicles, or even most naval combatants.
Briefs