100-kilowatt Mobile Tactical Lazer Weapon, page 1

Lazer weapons were once the stuff of science fiction.

It looks like science fiction is fast becoming science fact.

The SSHCL, designed and developed at Lawrence Livermore, is the prototype of a laser tactical weapon, which shows promise as the first high-energy laser compact enough in size and weight to be considered part of the Army�s future combat system (FCS) for short-range air defense. The FCS is a component of the Army�s vision of sensors, platforms, and weapons with a networked command and control system. The more advanced version of the laser weapon system, now under development, will be battery-powered and�at 2 meters long and less than a meter across�small enough to be mounted on a hybrid-electric high-mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicle (Humvee). In this configuration, the Humvee�s generator and batteries could power both the vehicle and the laser, requiring only diesel fuel to support full operation

www.llnl.gov...