Directed Energy Detection and Characterization Instrumentation

The increasing power, energy, and maturity of DE weapons systems has created an acute need for better measurement capabilities.  Systems designed to melt or disrupt electronics cannot be measured by many conventional methods, as they will destroy the diagnostic equipment along with their target.  To this end, Cybernet proposes the development of disposable HEL and HPM sensors which can provide accurate data until the point of fatal damage. We will leverage our experience developing HPM weapons as well as our experience in designing sensor systems for HEL and perform the necessary technology assessment to design low cost sensors, or modify existing sensors to meet the unique DE testing needs. BENEFIT: The development of a disposable sensor has the potential to save the Air Force and the rest of the Directed Energy community a significant amount of money.   Current tests of a conventional missile can destroy $5-10k of test equipment.  As DE weapons can be fired for very low per shot costs, and thus tested much more frequently, an equivalently inexpensive sensor suite would be highly beneficial.)