Breaking news
MBDA Germany prepares the way for C-RAM laser weapon system 2209114.
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Defense Industry News - MBDA |
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Thursday, September 22, 2011, 02:09 PM |
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MBDA
Germany prepares the way for C-RAM laser weapon system. |
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The
ability to direct 10 kW laser power over a long distance and reach a target
with a high quality beam is a decisive forward step. MBDA Germany has
conducted several successful tests with its laser demonstrator. This is
evidence of major progress in terms of achieving a C-RAM (Counter Rocket,
Artillery, Mortar) laser weapon system. The results also confirm MBDA
Germany’s leading position in Europe in this domain. |
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For the first time, 10 kW laser power reached a moving target located more than two kilometres away while retaining a high quality beam. The tracking of dynamic objects and the effects on the object were demonstrated over a distance of more than 2,300 m and an altitude differential of 1,000 m under real-life environmental conditions. These results are of major significance. The successful combating of RAM munitions is of major importance for the protection of soldiers in the field. However, this also represents several technical challenges. Defence against RAM munitions is only possible to a limited extent with current cannon systems or missiles. These difficulties arise from the high speed of artillery munitions, the small signatures of mortar munitions, the required combat distance in excess of 1,000 m and the necessary combat velocity. In this respect, laser weapons are exceptionally well suited for use against RAM munitions. However, since countermeasures against RAM must be carried out within a few seconds, it is necessary to achieve high laser power and a high quality laser beam against a fast moving target at distances of between 1,000 m and 3,000 m. This is the only way to guarantee the protection of a field camp using such a laser weapon. |
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 C-RAM MBDA Germany laser weapon system firing test |
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The experts at MBDA Germany have now proven that their
laser demonstrator is already able to deliver high laser power and a high
quality laser beam at a moving target over long distances. Currently,
it is only possible with the geometric coupling principle that has been
patented by MBDA Germany. This therefore lays the groundwork for the development
of a C- RAM laser weapon system.
A
European consortium led by MBDA Germany has been developing the major
aspects of the system in a study being conducted on behalf of the European
Defence Agency (EDA) since 2009. Integration investigations with appropriate
hardware have also been carried out. The final selection of a platform
for the laser weapon system will be made once all the relevant conditions
have been established. This process is currently underway in close consultation
with users and suppliers. |
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