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DHS to Evaluate Northrop Grumman's Ground-Based Anti-MANPADS The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will evaluate Northrop Grumman's ground-based high-energy laser system to protect commercial aircraft from shoulder-fired missiles known as MANPADS (man-portable air defense systems). The DHS awarded Northrop Grumman's Space Technology sector a $1.9 million, 18-month contract to develop a detailed operational plan for its ground-based, Skyguard anti-MANPADS technology, perform component-level testing, and assess life-cycle costs. The company is already participating in a DHS aircraft-based MANPADS program, using its Guardian DIRCM (directional infrared countermeasure) airborne system.
The DHS is conducting a formal technology readiness level (TRL) assessment of non-DIRCM (directional infrared countermeasures) technologies, such as Skyguard, to determine their applicability for civil aviation use. It also is insisting that any proposed solutions use existing technologies that don't require the development of new elements. Alexis Livanos, the president of Space Technology, notes that "the ability of a high-energy laser to shoot down rockets, artillery and mortars has been demonstrated repeatedly with mature chemical laser technologies proven in the Tactical High Energy Laser, or THEL." And Mike McVey, the president of Space Technology's Directed Energy Systems business area, adds that as the prime contractor for the THEL test bed, Northrop Grumman is building on that system's nearly perfect record of performance and safety. "Skyguard will be one-fourth the size and one-half the cost of THEL, while also being more powerful and more efficient," Mr. McVey said. 10-21-2006. Click here to go back to the headlines |
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