Lockheed Martin presses forward on laser-based missile interception system

Defense contractor Lockheed Martin is proceeding with a Missile Defense Agency contract to develop a Low Power Laser Demonstrator (LPLD) missile interceptor, which utilizes a laser and beam control system to intercept hostile missiles.

Under the contract, Lockheed Martin will improve and mature its fiber laser system propped on a high-altitude airborne platform meant to target missiles during their boost phase.

Lockheed Martin has been working their concept since 2017, but at the end of August, they were awarded a nine-month, $25.5 million contract extension from the Missile Defense Agency. They hope to reach a tailored critical design review phase, allowing them to reach a point where full-scale fabrication is possible.

“We have made great progress on our LPLD design, and in this stage, we are particularly focused on maturing our technology for beam control – the ability to keep the laser beam stable and focused at operationally relevant ranges,” Sarah Reeves, vice president for Missile Defense Programs at Lockheed Martin Space, said. “LPLD is one of many breakthrough capabilities the Missile Defense Agency is pursuing to stay ahead of rapidly-evolving threats, and we’re committed to bringing together Lockheed Martin’s full expertise in directed energy for this important program.”

Development is focused on Lockheed Martin’s Sunnyvale, California campus and will continue through July 2019.