July 12, 2006 :: Northrop Grumman :: News
Northrop Grumman has developed a new high-powered laser system known as Skyguard, said to be capable of defending against short-range ballistic missile, cruise missiles, short- and long-range rockets, artillery shells, mortars, and unmanned aerial vehicles. The new system is based on technology developed for the highly successful Tactical High Energy Laser (THEL). The recently unveiled program would appear to be a purely American rebirth of the THEL program, cooperation on which between Israel and the United States has undergone some difficulties.
In past years, THEL has successfully destroyed long- and short-range rockets, mortars, and artillery projectiles. According to a Northrop Grumman press release, Skyguard features greater power and a larger beam, which allows it to generate a protective shield of approximately 10 km in diameter. The system is designed to defend deployed forces, large military installations, civilian populations, or industrial areas. (Article)
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