Laser Activated Plasma (LAPLAS) for Standoff Electronic Denial

Robotic systems in general, and Unmanned Arial Vehicles (UAVs) in particular, pose a threat for both military and civilians when in the wrong hands. The triad of Kinetic, High-Power Microwave and Laser weapon systems currently used or considered for Counter-UAV (C-UAV) operation though effective in disrupting their performance, might be hazardous when used in a populated area. In this Phase I program AS&T proposes an alternative technology with its C-UAV denial enactment based on the use of the laser-induced broadband RF radiation. Phase I activities include the feasibility study of its proposed C-UAV concept and analysis of the performance and specification of the LAPLAS system to be developed for its execution. The feasibility study consists of modeling, simulation and laboratory validation of the LAPLAS breadboard. Practical implementation and experimental evaluation of a fully assembled system will be performed in Phase II. The Phase II activities will include design, integration and testing of the LAPLAS prototype. The program will culminate with lab testing of the LAPLAS prototype, and conclude with field-validate and demonstration of its performance in a scenario relevant to potential/prospective operational environment.