Using a Noise Source for Improving Reliability and Performance of Directed Energy Weapons

ABSTRACT: Directed energy weapons (DEW) using highly focused energy of lasers are powerful weapons that can destroy long range targets with pinpoint accuracy. These weapons bring significant advantages to traditional weaponry along with unique design and deployment challenges. The high optical power required for an effective DEW drives potentially high return loss and reflection that can damage laser sources. Use of a radio frequency noise source embedded in the weapon’s electronics can spread laser coherence, minimize reflection, and protect the laser source.