SCI-316 High Energy Laser Weapons: Quantifying the Impact of Atmospherics and Reflections

Activity: OtherParticipation to a NATO STO RTG/ET

Description

Directed Energy includes both High Energy Laser (HEL) and High Power Microwave (HPM) weapons. Particular progress has been made in recent years with HEL systems such that it is highly probable that NATO Nations will be presented with either coalition or adversary employment of HEL weapons in the near term. SCI-264 gives NATO a good picture of how and when High Energy Lasers can contribute to reducing or eliminating some of the capability shortfalls. It identifies and explains the operations of the main components of a HEL weapon; compares the use of HEL and conventional weapons across a range of military vignettes; identifies and addresses some key interoperability aspects; and identifies a number of issues that must be addressed if HEL weapons are to be incorporated into the NATO response plans. SAS-140 (2017-2020) proceeds with investigating the outlines of laser weapon operational concepts and employment. Should NATO possess or be faced with such a capability in the future, it will be important to understand and to quantify the impact of weather conditions and the characteristics of possible target reflectivity in order to properly plan and execute engagements across the battlespace, or to assess the risk of a laser weapon threat. This proposed RTG is a follow-on to SCI-264 and builds upon the products and information developed under the previous RTG.
Objectives

Period6 Nov 2021 → …

Keywords

  • HEL