Space-based interceptors and drones with laser weapons: Missile Defense Review wish list revealed

WASHINGTON – The long-delayed Missile Defense Review will call for research and investments to ensure America’s security for the next several decades: laser technology, the F-35 as an ICBM killer, and potentially putting interceptors in space. Defense News reports. Continue reading original article

The Military & Aerospace Electronics take:

17 Jan. 2019 -- The idea of using laser weapons to take out a missile in the boost phase is not new, but it has received a boost in the past year in comments from Pentagon technological leaders.

Expect some form of disaggregated space-based sensors architecture, relying on many smaller systems rather than the expensive, highly-capable systems that the U.S. has traditionally relied upon. Hosting sensor payloads on commercial satellites could also be in play.

The Pentagon will launch a study, lasting perhaps six months, to look into the most promising technologies for space-based interceptors, and come up with estimates for cost and time; after the study is done, the military leaders will look to move forward if it makes sense.

Related: Electro-optical sensors key to missile defense

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Related: DARPA to brief industry on developing artificial intelligence and cyber security for military satellites

John Keller, chief editor
Military & Aerospace Electronics

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