|
There is a "sister" project to this called Airborne Laser. It is a larger laser that is mounted in a 747. It is intended to take out ballistic missiles. They are a little ahead of us and are in flight testing right now. They also had a version of this a long time ago that flew on a 707.
The "power" for the laser is actually a chemical reaction, so no electricity is required beyond normal C-130 400Hz AC. The benefit of the chemical laser is that it is very powerful for the relative small size. The drawback is that it uses really nasty chemicals. The power output of the laser is classified, but needless to say it will ruin your day if you happened to get in the way... Of course, that's the intention. :>)
I spent some time up at NAVAIR in Lakehurst, NJ when they were modifying our C-130 and they had some Talons in the hangar at the same time. Neat planes.
Mike
__________________
Mike
1976 Euro 911
3.2 w/10.3 compression & SSIs
22/29 torsions, 22/22 adjustable sways, Carrera brakes
|