Airborne Laser (ABL)
Overview
The Airborne Laser (ABL) will locate and track missiles in the boost phase of their flight, then accurately point and fire the high-energy laser, destroying enemy missiles near their launch areas.
Capabilities:
- Operates autonomously, above the clouds, outside the range of threat weapons but sufficiently close to enemy territory
- Engages early, destroying ballistic missiles in their boost phase of flight over launch area
- Cues and tracks targets, communicating with other joint theater assets for layered defense system
Unique Technology:
- Nose-mounted turret with 1.5m telescope that focuses beams on missile and collects return image and signals
- Beam Control System to acquire and track targets with precision accuracy
Look for further developments of the ABL as the global threat of ballistic missiles becomes ever more prevalent.
For more information, read the Airborne Laser (ABL) (PDF) overview, the Missile Defense Agency Airborne Laser Fact Sheet and the Defense Daily (PDF) Supplement on ABL.
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