The US/Israeli Tactical High-Energy Laser (THEL) demonstrator destroyed a large-calibre rocket on 4 May at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico. Previous tests of the deuterium fluoride chemical laser weapon destroyed artillery shells and smaller Katyusha rockets. The 165mm (6.5in)-diameter, 3.4m (11ft)-long rocket flew higher and faster and carried a larger warhead than previous targets.
Source: Flight International