[quote] Airborne Laser Demonstrating Increased Range
By Robert Wall, Andy Nativi
The Boeing 747-400-based Airborne Laser (ABL) Test Bed for the U.S. military is now firing its high-power chemical laser at three to four times the range seen in the original shootdown exercise, according to Boeing.
The test bed is flying about twice a month with the laser firing once a month against a target board or against actual targets, says Roger Krone, president of Boeing Network & Space Systems. Several firings have taken place since the first shootdown in February and further shots this year are planned. Much of the focus has been on expanding the envelope of the laser system, not just in range but also engagement angles, Krone notes.
One of the criticisms within the Pentagon against ABL has been its perceived limited range and the need to position the 747 close to a threat. But Krone says,
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