We have seen the future of defense systems, and it’s laser-based. Northrop and Boeing have developed sophisticated defense systems that put this technology to use. Continue reading to see more. Click here for first picture in gallery.
SkyGuard
Northrop Grumman has developed a laser-based (directed energy) defense system — called Skyguard — that “provides a counter against enemy short- and long-range rockets, short-range ballistic missiles, artillery projectiles, mortars, unmanned aerial vehicles and cruise missiles.”
Boeing YAL-1
Boeing’s high-tech YAL-1 Airborne Laser (ABL) weapons system consists of a high energy laser, flight turret assembly, tracker Illuminator lasers, and a beacon illuminator — to be installed on modified 747-400Fs. Simply put, it first uses infrared sensors to detect missiles, then three low power tracking lasers calculate speed/aimport, and lastly, the main laser is fired for 3-5 seconds from a front-mounted turret.
