Mid-wave Infrared (MWIR) Illuminator for Ground and Small Unmanned Aircraft System (SUAS) Targeting

ABSTRACT: The final design, fabrication, and testing of an ultra-compact and highly reliable quantum cascade laser (QCL) two-color module with an operating range from 100m to over 3km for weapon-mounted applications and up to 10km for small unmanned aircraft systems is proposed. Operational characteristics of QCLs in the module have been carefully tailored in Phase I to provide the required optical power level for pointing and illumination at the specified distances. The required optical power levels are extrapolated from short-range pointing/illumination testing data. Based on the required optical power level and QCL efficiency, continuous run time of up to 30 minutes and intermittent operation with 30 seconds on and 1 minute off cycles for up to 4 hours are projected for the module.; BENEFIT: Development of powerful and cost-effective MWIR target illuminators, pointers and designators has a direct impact on the effectiveness of our warfighters. Illumination capability at MWIR wavelengths will improve the target visibility under a variety of operating scenarios. Availability of a laser module with sufficient power and capability at a price level of $5,000.00 each, in quantities of 1,000 per year will open up opportunities for the insertion of QCLs in many other application of the US Air Force and other military forces. Furthermore, affordable MWIR illumination capability will aid commercial deployment of QCLs civilian application in poor visibility ambient environment, such as fog, smoke and dust.