Laser Effector Engages Airborne Targets
In October MBDA Deutschland successfully tested a new high-energy laser effector against airborne targets at a military training facility on Germany’s North Sea coast.
Tested under real environmental conditions, including adverse weather conditions, the simulated engagements took place against an unmanned quadcopter, which conducted dynamic manoeuvres at a variety of ranges. The primary objective of the tests was to assess the efficacy of the beam guidance and tracking system: the laser target illuminator held an aim point on the quadcopter for an extended period.
Additional testing simulated defence against a “swarm” attack from multiple airborne targets, requiring rapid switching between targets approaching from different vectors. The system demonstrator, integrated into a standard container, combines a highly dynamic 360° beam guidance system with sophisticated mirror optics capable of harnessing higher laser power levels than those currently available. Building on experience in previous laser activities and proven technologies, the company believes the laser effector has considerable potential.
“These successful tests demonstrated that our laser effector has achieved a high degree of technological maturity. This puts us in a leading position in the development of laser effectors”, said Thomas Gottschild, Managing Director of MBDA Deutschland GmbH.
