The SHiELD program is developing a directed energy laser system on an aircraft pod that will serve to demonstrate self-defense of aircraft against surface-to-air (SAM) and air-to-air (AAM) missiles.

The directed energy laser program is on track.

Lockheed has been funded for $26.3 million to build a fiber laser in the tens of kilowatts range as a combat laser for jet fighters. They are to put a prototype laser into a fighter by 2021.

They will shrink the size and weight of lasers down to be able to fit onto a podded system on a tactical fighter jet, while maintaining near perfect beam quality.

Above – During the series of tests at the High Energy Laser System Test Facility at White Sands Missile Range, the Demonstrator Laser Weapon System (DLWS), acting as a ground-based test surrogate for the SHiELD system, was able to engage and shoot down several air-launched missiles in flight.