Directed energy systems

Fighter Jets With Laser Weapons To Become Reality By 2020

The effort to weaponise lasers could pay off in the near future. We won’t be seeing planet destroying lasers a la Star Wars any time soon – nor would we want to-,  and laser handguns are likely also some time away from becoming a reality, but the technology has advanced enough to have some real world application very soon.

The US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is set to demonstrate laser weapons designed for fighter jets as soon as 2020. Larger planes can already be equipped with laser weaponry, but the size and weight restrictions of fighter jets make it a much more difficult challenge. Matters are further complicated when you factor in the inherent need for accuracy even when the jet is flying at supersonic speeds.

Dr Kelly Hammett, AFRL’s Directed Energy Directorate’s chief engineer, is convinced these challenges can be surpassed within five years. With an annual budget of US$150 million for the development of laser technology, Hammett is confident the 2020 goal can be reached.