Ultra-Broadband and High Average Power Directional IR Countermeasures

High intensity light sources can be effectively used for Infrared Countermeasures (IRCM) against Electrooptic (EO) based systems. The operational requirements for an IRCM optical source depend upon the desired effects along with engagement parameters such as range, atmospheric conditions, engagement geometry, target characteristics, and IRCM platform constraints. Of interest, are systems that can "dazzleö or damage EO sensors with ultrashort laser pulses with spectral content that spans the mid-infrared (MWIR) or long-wave infrared (LWIR) spectral regions, because it is difficult to protect sensors from this type of countermeasures with passive filters or active optical limiters. The objectives of the proposed Phase II effort is to use results of the Phase I numerical simulations and IRCM-system considerations to build a prototype laser to deliver ultra-broadband IR laser pulses to EO sensors and prepare for Phase III activities.