Laser Beamrider Optical Countermeasures

The Laser Beamrider Strobe Countermeasures (LBRSC) system is designed to address a set of threat missiles using laser beamrider guidance. The LBRSC automatically detects the laser from the beamrider missile launcher unit, and generates a directed optical beam sufficient to temporally flash blind the launcher unit operator, causing the missile to miss the target. The LBRSC uses a non-lethal eye safe flash strobe that is reusable and rechargeable on the aircraft during operation for employment against multiple missile attacks. The LBRSC, contrasted with conventional non-directed expendable flares, avoids temporarily blinding friendly personnel in adjacent aircraft or on the ground and does not illuminate the target (platform being protected) or other friendly platforms or ground personnel. The rapid, automatic re-charging feature for the LBRSC minimizes the platforms on-board storage and logistic re-supply requirements for expendable flares. The LBRSC is totally automatic and autonomous and requires no pilot or crewmember involvement or decision. The LBRSC has multiple roles on the aircraft, with its manual steering feature, it can be employed as a continuously illuminating searchlight for landing areas, search and rescue operations, identifying targets for friendly ground forces or as a countermeasure against other threats, such as RPG's and small arms fire.