Comments on: Now It’s ABL’s Turn

By: Kevin

Kevin — Sat, 31 May 2008 04:33:16 +0000

The ABL actually has the potential to change the whole approach to air/space dominance because it can shoot down ICBM’s, aircraft, low earth orbit satellites, and protect itself from SAM’s. This is just a prototype we’re getting to see, and a much more capable version could be fielded, if everything with the ABL checks out.

By: Old Sailor

Old Sailor — Sat, 31 May 2008 01:25:51 +0000

Yes, I suppose protecting the American people from potential nuclear annihilation is a waste of time, isn’t it, Markus? I suppose we could just fold up shop and invite the Russians or the Chinese to come on over and do what they want with us. That would be the “One-World” ideal solution, wouldn’t it? Everybody all happy-clappy, holdy-handsy around the United Nations table.
On the other hand, I for one am not interested in becoming part of a Russian or communist Chinese satrap. I like the idea of a strong national defense with American sovereignty to decide what is best for us first, don’t you agree?

By: Brian

Brian — Fri, 30 May 2008 14:40:51 +0000

Will, the tactical laser they posted about last week was air to ground. This laser today is supposed to become part of the missile defense program, so anti-ICBM, I would believe.

By: Will

Will — Fri, 30 May 2008 02:47:46 +0000

Would appreciate a little background here. Exactly what is the mission of the ABL? ABM? Anti-cruise missile? Air to air? It can’t be air to ground, can it?

By: stephen russell

stephen russell — Fri, 30 May 2008 01:27:35 +0000

Expand R&D for air & ground Fixed & mobile LASER units, expand ABL.
Get it tested & over Japan or HI or Wash DC area
or EU airspace alone.
Maximize the laser output IE # beams shot out.
More jobs.
More defense.
CUT the DoD BS & Fund this.

By: murc

murc — Thu, 29 May 2008 23:38:28 +0000

Markus — wrong. While yes, this project is behind schedule and over budget (what isn ‘t these days), its still worth all the time and money, lasers have a very bright future ahead of them (no pun intended). next year when this thing shoots down a missile, I expect you to post again, stating that you were wrong.
Jeff M — There is work being done on ground lasers, chemical & solid state. like THEL/MTHEL, among others. and Zues the 10kw laser humvee has being deployed to many countries (its mainly used for destroying old munitions, like a giant pile of iraqi guns, ied’s and other odds and ends).
joeblow — the budget IS tightening when it comes to projects like these, there is less R&D money to go around because so much is being spent on Iraq & Afganistan.
AS for the article:
Cool. Props to the big 3 for getting this far, and cant wait to see her in action in the skies.

By: joeblow

joeblow — Thu, 29 May 2008 22:52:21 +0000

I’m curious as to why you think the pentagon budget is tightening.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/03/washington/03cnd-military.html?hp
this article seems to suggest that funding for the armed services are at an all time high.

By: Jeff M

Jeff M — Thu, 29 May 2008 21:32:22 +0000

Why is it the airborne lasers (both of them) are so far along, but the ground-based version, meant to destroy mortars rockets and artillery, are nowhere to be seen?
They need a truck with one of these lasers, not a 747.

By: Markus Wolf

Markus Wolf — Thu, 29 May 2008 21:30:27 +0000

Another incredible waste of money and effort. This thing is a non-starter if ever there was one. Just underlines the Pentagons obsession with bright shiny toys.