After successful tests of the laser maneuverable short-Range air defense system (Directed Energy-Maneuver Short-Range Air Defense Systems, DE M-SHORAD), the US Army plans to receive the first platoon of tactical lasers in the next fiscal year 2022. As previously reported, the result of the work of the company Kord Technologies should be a platoon armed with 50 kW lasers installed on a wheeled (8x8) combat vehicle "Stryker" (Stryker).
The tactical laser is designed to combat UAVs, aircraft and helicopters, as well as missiles, artillery and mortar shots of the enemy. After integration into the combined-arms air defense system of the US Army, the laser is designed to complement the existing capabilities of cannon and missile anti-aircraft systems.
Tactical laser on the Stryker armored personnel carrier
According to officials, the first prototype of the tactical laser was designed within 24 months. The development was carried out in close cooperation between the Office of Rapid Technological and Critical Capabilities of the US Army (Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office) and leading representatives of the scientific and technical industry. The power supply of the weapon system - batteries, cooling equipment, a laser-is provided by the main engine of the Stryker. It is claimed that when fully charged, there is enough energy to fight several targets. Since the replenishment of "ammunition" is not required, the logistics of the system is limited to spare parts.
According to widespread information, the combination of the Stryker armored personnel carrier and a 50 kW laser has proven itself during tests in conditions close to combat. The next step will be participation in the interspecific exercises Project Convergence 2021 in the fall of this year. The event involves units of all types of armed forces, including the newly formed US Space Command.
After the successful completion of the prototype tests, it is planned to form a platoon consisting of four Stryker armored personnel carriers with laser installations. As a result, for the first time, a maneuverable element equipped with energy weapons will appear in the US army. But before the divisions and brigades get a new weapon system at their disposal, another series of technical and tactical tests will be necessary.
According to the materials of the resource esut.de