laserweapons2023

The US Army is working on developing offensive and defensive directed-energy laser weapons to enhance military capabilities.

The weapons are scheduled to be developed and integrated into the Indirect Fire Protection Capability programme by 2023.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

US Army Research and Technology deputy assistant secretary Mary J. Miller said: "The Army’s S&T effort is committed to pursuing high-energy lasers."

"Lasers have been promised for a long time, but they’ve never held up and delivered what was asked for, so the operators are rightfully sceptical. That’s why the army is taking lasers out into operational environments and testing them."

"The Army’s S&T effort is committed to pursuing high-energy lasers."

Set to be integrated in gradual phases, the weapon systems will help the US forces to counter threats, including rockets, artillery and mortars, unmanned aerial vehicles and cruise missiles.

The US Army has already revealed its high-energy laser mobile demonstrator (HEL MD) programme.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The HEL MD incorporates a laser and vehicle-mounted beam director, in addition to enhanced multi-mode radar (surrogate radar) support.

Meanwhile, the US Air Force (USAF) is planning to develop an offensive laser that will be fitted to AFSOC AC-130 gunships in collaboration with the Special Operations Command.

Image: The Sodium Guidestar at the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Starfire Optical Range at Kirtland Air Force Base. Photo: courtesy of Air Force photo.