U.S. Air Force wants to fry enemy anti-aircraft sensors

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.

. 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.

. Currently, enemy anti-aircraft artillery sensors are eliminated by bombs or pre-programmed missiles such as the upgraded Tomahawk.

. However, the Air Force would like a laser so powerful that it disables any tracking sensors within range.

. 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.

. 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.

. 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.

. [Via Wired Danger Room ]