Fiber Optic System for the Delivery of High Power Laser Radiation

A Mobile Ordnance Disruptor System (MODS), which is being developed for Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), utilizes a high power Nd:YAG laser for munitions neutralization. This concept allows for EOD at a safe distance . which minimizes the risk to personnel. A shortcoming of the MODS is the inability to neutralize munitions that are out of the line-of-sight. An optical fiber waveguide can be exploited to transfer the laser energy to non-line-of-sight locations thus improving the efficiency of the MODS along with enhancing the safety of the operators. SEA will demonstrate the deliv- ery of high power Nd:YAG energy through a long length of optical fiber to shDw the feasibility of such a system. The eventual system, however, must be able to deliver high powers, be able to withstand the riRors of field deployment, and be disposable due to the catastrophic nature of the neutral- ization method. To achieve this ultimate task, SEA has developed a simple, inexpensive, expendable cable design which combines the power delivery fiber optic waveguide, an illumination waveguide, and a visualization system into one unit. The design incorporates the Fiber Optic Microcable (FOMC), developed by the Navy, which utilizes state-of-the-art coating technology to fortify the optical cable.