ABL completes laser ground tests

The Boeing-led Airborne Laser team has announced the successful completion of a series of tests involving its high-energy laser at the Systems Integration Lab at Edwards Air Force Base, California.

During this test series, lasing duration and power were demonstrated at levels suitable for the destruction of multiple classes of ballistic missiles.

Airborne Laser's (ABL) megawatt-class Chemical Oxygen Iodine Laser (COIL) is designed and built by Northrop Grumman Corporation. Lasing tests included more than 70 separate lasing events. The laser has been operated at simulated altitude, and achieved steady state operations under full optical control.

In July 2005, the ABL team completed flight testing of the system's passive mission payload at Edwards Air Force Base. During those tests, the team demonstrated the stability and alignment of the two Beam Control and Fire Control optical benches with the turret. That test also demonstrated the system's pointing and vibration control functions, as well as its ability to acquire targets as directed by the battle management segment.