Long-Range Eyesafe Ladar Rangefinder for the Airborne Laser's Active Ranging System

To counter emerging threats of theater ballistic missiles the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) has sponsored the development of the Airborne Laser Weapons System (ABLWS). For the ABLWS to defeat multiple targets over the theater of operation it must be capable of accurately tracking multiple targets simultaneously. The Active Ranging System (ARS) plays a crucial role in achieving this capability by providing quick and accurate measurements of the missiles position and velocity over time. Traditional laser radar (ladar) systems rely on complex and expensive high pulse energy coherent detection configurations. This proposal addresses a new and innovative ladar technology that dramatically reduces the cost and complexity of the associated system by leveraging dual-use laser communications hardware and technology. Phase II will develop a prototype ladar system that will demonstrate long-range detection using Areté’s proprietary technology. After successful completion of the Phase II, we envision transitioning this SBIR program into a Phase-III Advanced Technology Program (ATP) that will demonstrate the full (six-state, 3-position and 3-velocity) tracking capability of the ARS concept against objective (moving) targets.