Tactical high-energy laser (THEL) as a weapon system in future theater air and missile defense (TAMD)

Abstract

There is currently no existing or programmed system with a capability to negate unguided rockets and mortar / artillery projectiles after they are launched. There is limited capability to negate UAVs that need to be countered at a sufficient range to preclude detection, identification, and targeting of friendly forces. With the threat moving toward the proliferation of low cost unmanned threat platforms and munitions, there is a need to develop and field cost effective solutions for this ADA mission. The THEL system concept is an application of High Energy Lasers that is a potential weapon system of the future to provide this required force protection.