Lockheed Martin, the defense and security company is demonstrating how powerful is the Advanced Test High Energy Asset (ATHENA) laser weapon system by targeting a truck on its field test. It is the more powerful demonstration ever documented in this type of laser weapons.
The 30-kilowatt fiber laser weapon was able to immobilize the truck's engine on the field demonstration. The objective of the test is to display the company's innovation in developing weapon technology with detailed specifications, according to Fox News.
"Fiber-optics lasers are revolutionizing direct energy systems," Keoki Jackson, Lockheed Martin's Chief Technology Officer, said in a statement. "We are investing in every component of the system - from the optics and beam control to the laser itself - to drive size, weight, and power efficiencies," added Jackson.
Lockheed wanted to mount this weaponry on military planes and helicopters. These lasers can blast any objects from a mile away. ATHENA was created in a secured firm in Maryland, and it is based on the Area Defense Anti-Munitions laser weapon system.
Lockheed disclosed that the test implies the next move to installing lightweight laser weapons on military aircraft, helicopters, and ships, Mail Online reported.
By using a strategy called the spectral beam combined with the system blends multiple laser modules to be able to create a single, high-quality, and powerful beam. This will provide a great and efficient lethality compared to the multiple individual 10 kilowatt lasers used in other systems.
Athena is based on the firm's Area Defense Anti-Munitions (Adam) laser weapon system.