Non-lethal avian active denial system based on 2 micron fiber laser

This proposal is for the development of an efficient 2-micron, eye-safe, high power laser designed for next generation non-lethal avian active denial systems that can be used to repel birds in critical areas around aircraft and other high value system. Efficient laser operation resulting from high Tm doping concentration offers a deep magazine and deployable compact size. Diffraction limited output laser beam provides an effective engagement range over thousands of meters. The all-fiber laser cavity structure makes the system very reliable under complex environments. The speed of light delivery, exceptional accuracy, and easy retargeting help operator do better in complex environments. The retina-safe property makes the 2-micron laser a favorable choice used in complicated urban combat environments. The strong absorption of skin at 2 micron can cause the target severe pain without permanent damage. BENEFIT: The technology will enable the market introduction of compact, efficient, and maintenance-free, high power 2 µm fiber lasers used for non-lethal aviation active denial systems deployed near airports. Aviation bird collision causes annual damages that have been estimated at $400 million within the United States of America alone and up to $1.2 billion to commercial aircraft worldwide. The proposed 2 µm fiber laser could be used to replace current solid-state 2 micron lasers used in those medical equipments. It will also provide medical practitioners with a highly reliable solution, in a compact package with a significantly improved total cost of ownership. We envisage a staged product release roadmap that will leverage the development from SBIR program and provide the appropriate milestones for progressively validating the commercial reliability of the technology.