<p>Thanks to the crisis in Libya, terms like "no fly zone," "air defense" and "anti-aircraft missiles" are bombarding the headlines once again with a vengeance. </p>.<p>Although the UN-sanctioned, US-led (at the onset) mission has been relatively successful in crippling Colonel Gaddafi's anti-aircraft defenses, the Air Force is already examining possible ways of neutralizing threats to military aircraft in future conflicts.</p>.<p>Currently, enemy anti-aircraft artillery sensors are eliminated by bombs or pre-programmed missiles such as the upgraded Tomahawk. </p>.<p>However, the Air Force would like a laser so powerful that it disables any tracking sensors within range. </p>.<p>As such, the DoD has kicked off a research initiative known as the High Power Laser Effect for Counter Sensor Engagement, with the Pentagon requesting additional data about various methods that can be harnessed to disable sensors. </p>.<p>The technology would have to be capable of supporting enough power to facilitate the firing of a beam from 10 kilometers away at a massive kilojoule per cubic centimeter. </p>.<p>The 10km range suggests the laser will probably be mounted on a manned or autonomous military plane, which would be tasked with scouring enemy territory and disabling sensors before the fighter jets and bombers follow. </p>.<p>[Via <a href="http://www.wired.com/dangerroom/2011/04/air-forces-future-laser-will-fry-enemy-sensors/#more-44734" shape="rect"><em>Wired Danger Room</em></a>]</p>