TRW and the US Army are assembling a prototype tactical laser for a series of live tests beginning early next year.
The Tactical High Energy Laser (THEL) advanced concept technology demonstration (ACTD) is designed to test the advanced weapon against rockets. Sponsored by the USA and Israel, the THEL will be tested against Russian Katyusha rockets that threaten northern Israeli cities. The US Army could purchase a smaller version for use in South Korea. Plans call for 12-18 months of field testing in the USA and Israel.
THEL development has suffered technical problems, causing schedule delays while driving costs above the $131 million cost cap. The US Army and TRW agreed to share costs exceeding $131 million until the contractor shoots down a Katyusha rocket. At that point, the USA and Israel assume 75% of any additional costs incurred in completing the ACTD.
TRW has delivered the THEL pointer-tracker subsystem to the US Army's laser test facility at the White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico. The laser device will arrive by the end of the month, to be integrated with command and control components, including an Israeli radar. TRW heads the project, with support from Rafael, Israel Aircraft Industries and Tadiran.
Source: Flight International