A laser designed to wirelessly deliver power across the battlefield has demonstrated a second capability: engaging aerial threats.
During a recent test, researchers from the US Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) transmitted energy to a remote location using the laser system before using it again to engage a simulated aerial threat.
The team repeated the test in snowfall and low-visibility conditions to assess how the system would perform in adverse weather.
Unlike previous trials conducted in highly controlled environments, the latest demo focused on realistic field conditions to identify technical improvements needed for operational deployment.
“We wanted to prove this could work where warfighters actually operate, not just in ideal conditions,” said Justin Lorentzen, a research physicist at NRL.
“Testing in wind, snow, and real atmospheric interference gives us the data we need to improve the system and move it toward a true operational capability.”
Ease of Use and Maintenance
The laser system used in the demonstration is based on a directed-energy platform already employed by the US Marine Corps.
NRL researchers said the dual-use concept could eventually help forward-deployed units receive energy without relying as heavily on fuel convoys and other logistics support.
The trial also highlighted the system’s field maintainability, with researchers quickly repairing a key component and returning it to operation without significant disruption.
“You can’t have a system that takes months to repair or months to train someone to use,” said Brian Di Salvo, NRL Radar Division Military Deputy Lieutenant Commander.
“This system showed both repairability and simplicity of operation, qualities that matter when you’re talking about real deployment with young operators in the field.”
Government Support
The project is backed by the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment through the Operational Energy Capability Improvement Fund.
NRL conducted the demo in partnership with Boeing and stakeholders from the US Navy, Marine Corps, and Army.
The laboratory plans additional demonstrations with the US Marine Corps to gather operator feedback and shape future iterations of the technology.
“Our next goal is putting this capability in front of warfighters and letting them tell us how they would use it,” NRL Electrical Engineer Alex Grede, Ph.D. said. “That feedback is what will help shape the next generation of power beaming systems.”
