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The use of directed energy as a weapon is
a relatively new phenomenon on the
modern battlefield. Many of the systems
under development are maturing in their
capabilities. The USA is investing heavily
in directed-energy programmes such as
the airborne laser (ABL), the space-based
laser (SBL), tactical high-energy laser
(THEL) and directed energy for possible
antisatellite (ASAT) missions. The
proliferation of ballistic missiles has
considerably increased in the past
decades, and it is highly likely that the
USA will face a direct threat from new
ballistic-missile countries. It is for this
reason that the USA has sought to
develop ways to defend itself from ballisticmissile
attack. This is the primary mission
to which directed-energy weapons are
being examined, it is to this end which the
airborne and space-based lasers are
being developed.
This report examines the technology of the
systems, and the companies which are
involved in developing those systems.
Executives should find it a useful guide to
the programmes which are currently under
development. The contact information
provided in Chapter 9 will enable those
who wish to investigate the companies
involved in the development of these
programmes further. The report should
also be of value as a primer into the
current development of directed-energy weapons, with particular attention to
ballistic-missile defence.
About the Author
Mr Mowthorpe is currently completing a Ph.D at the Centre for Security Studies, University of
Hull, on the Militarisation and Weaponisation of Space. He has published articles in journals
including Aerospace Power Chronicles, Space Policy Journal and the Journal of Slavic Military
Studies. These articles include "US Military Space Policy 1945-1992" and "Soviet/Russian
Antisatellite Programmes During the Cold War and Beyond". Previously he was a Research
Assistant at the Department of Defence &Strategic Studies, USA, where he was awarded a
MSc. in Defence & Strategic Studies. Prior to this he was awarded a B.A.(Hons) in Politics
and International Relations at the University of Hull.
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