High-Power Fiber-Optical Switch for Infrared Countermeasure (IRCM) Laser Applications

We propose to develop a new fiber optic switch for IRCM applications. The purpose of the phase I program is to demonstrate the feasibility of a high power 1xN (N=2-6) fiber optic switch operating in the mid IR region. By carefully optimizing each individual optical component, the optical switch will have a minimum net insertion loss of less than ~0.25dB at given laser wavelengths in the mid IR region. A pathway to develop a highly ruggedized optical switch for military applications is outlined and will be vigorously pursued during the tenure of the phase I program. The technical goals of the phase I program are to (a) experimentally demonstrate the feasibility of the key performance parameters and (b) to conduct preliminary packaging design of a ruggedized switch. BENEFITS: The Navy has interest in infrared counter measure systems that use lasers to protect aircraft from infrared-guided threats. Among the counter measure architectures under consideration is a centrally located laser with distribution by optical fiber to multiple tracker-pointer output assemblies. This approach reduces volume, weight, and cost. An enabling technology for this architecture is a robust fiber-optic switch. This program would provide the Navy with a high performance switch with low insertion loss and the capability to handle high power. The switch will also be important for civilian applications such as laser marking, laser machining, laser micromachining, and forensic science.