ATHENA defeats airborne targets
Lockheed Martin has demonstrated its prototype Advanced Test High Energy Asset (ATHENA) laser weapon system at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico.
During testing with the US Army's Space and Missile Defense Command, the 30kW class ATHENA laser system brought down five 10.8ft wingspan Outlaw UAS. The weapon employed advanced beam control technology and an efficient fibre laser.
The test saw the laser system defeating airborne targets in flight by causing loss of control and structural failure.
Lockheed Martin and the army are now conducting post mission reviews, and data collected will be used to further refine the system, improve model predictions and inform development of future laser systems.
ATHENA is a transportable ground-based system powered by a compact Rolls-Royce turbo generator. It is currently being used as a test-bed for demonstrating technologies required for the development of military laser weapon systems.
Keoki Jackson, chief technology officer, Lockheed Martin, said: ‘The tests at White Sands against aerial targets validated our lethality models and replicated the results we've seen against static targets at our own test range.
‘As we mature the technology behind laser weapon systems, we're making the entire system more effective and moving closer to a laser weapon that will provide greater protection to our warfighters by taking on more sophisticated threats from a longer range.’
More from Land Warfare
-
S-MET competitors outline bids
The US Army’s Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport Increment II (S-MET II) is a follow-on from S-MET Increment I (S-MET I) and will provide a larger and more capable vehicle.
-
![Otokar inches towards Romania deal in major boost for the company]()
Otokar inches towards Romania deal in major boost for the company
The possible procurement of vehicles by Romania would build on the existing commercial presence which Otokar has in the country.
-
![Northrop Grumman adds AI to air defence controller for improved CUAS capability]()
Northrop Grumman adds AI to air defence controller for improved CUAS capability
Northrop Grumman’s Forward Area Air Defence (FAAD) Advanced Battle Manager (ABM) system continuously monitors the battlespace, replans engagements as necessary and supports multiple weapon types.
-
![Lithuania turns to Saab and Kongsberg to improve air defences]()
Lithuania turns to Saab and Kongsberg to improve air defences
Lithuania has placed a second order for Mobile Short-Range Air Defence (MSHORAD) systems and expects to begin receiving systems from its first order next year.
-
![Singapore enhances air defence coverage for army forces in the field]()
Singapore enhances air defence coverage for army forces in the field
The adapted SPYDER system extends the reach and lethality of the air defence coverage of army units in their area of operations.
-
![Tata to build IFVs in North Africa]()
Tata to build IFVs in North Africa
The Wheeled Amphibious Armoured Platform (WhAP) was designed to meet an Indian Army requirement. Only six have been ordered by India and it is likely the US Stryker may be purchased instead.
