Lockheed Martin puts the production of combat lasers on stream

Lockheed Martin has long been committed to creating laser systems that can be used in combat. In March, the company demonstrated the operation of a ground-based laser system capable of destroying a truck engine one mile (1.6 km) away. This ATENA installation is a fiber optic laser weapon, combining several laser modules into a single system. This allows you to increase the power of the beam, approximately three times, compared with other laser systems (mainly 10 kW). Accordingly, ATENA is a 30 kW laser unit.

Now the company has moved from the prototyping stage to the industrial production stage. In October, Lockheed Martin launchedmass production of high-energy modular laser systems with a capacity of 60 kW, which are installed on various military-style machines.

Fiber laser systems will be manufactured in Washington, Bothell. According to the developers , such an installation can be used for a variety of purposes, due to its high power. If necessary, the military can increase the power of the laser system up to 120 kW, installing new modules.

In addition to power, such installations are also distinguished by reliability, high fault tolerance. The operational preparation of the laser system for operation is minimal. Despite the complexity, the system is easily controlled by one person. The laser system is considered mainly as defensive rather than offensive weapons. Missiles, mines, drones - all this can be destroyed by a laser beam, and the system is induced independently.

Interestingly, Lockheed Martin has been working in the field of laser weapons for about 40 years. During this time, specialists were able to develop many interesting modules and subsystems, including precise guidance, stabilization system and much more. The company is currently developing laser weapons for use on land, water and in the air.