Applications and performance of high power lasers and in the battlefield

This paper reviews the status and applications of a defensive weapon based on high power lasers, in the battlefield. Laser weapon is a novel concept which utilizes high power laser beam to traverse the distance into incoming objects at a speed of light, and then, destroy or disable it. Various types of lasers and configurations will be discussed in this review including gas lasers, solid state lasers, fiber lasers and the free-electron laser. We will discuss various configurations such as airborne laser (ABL), diode pumped crystals and disk lasers as well as heat-capacity lasers. Recent applications of ultrafast solid state lasers for non-lethal or low collateral damage applications will be presented.

► Several types of high power lasers have potential as a weapon. ► Chemical lasers (MW-class) can be used against incoming missiles. ► Solid state laser amplifiers have potential as mobile lasers. ► Fiber lasers are novel candidates and players in the battlefield. ► Ultrafast lasers can serve as a non-lethal weapon.