Research on Test and Evaluation Technology of Airborne Laser Weapon

Due to the differences in damage mechanisms and combat methods, the existing test methods for airborne weapons and sensors were not applicable to airborne laser weapons, and it is necessary to study their special test and evaluation techniques. Starting from the test situation of typical airborne laser weapons in foreign countries, we analyzed their main test phases, test contents, test categories, management characteristics, etc., and studied the contents and methods of the main subjects, such as aerodynamic-optical characteristics, light emission characteristics, target detection, identification and tracking, beam control, and lethality test, etc., and the results showed that the airborne laser weapons in foreign countries were still in the stage of development testing and evaluation, and the U.S. has adopted a multi-planned approach to test and evaluation. The U.S. has adopted the management measures of promoting relevant research such as multi-program arrangement, vigorously constructing test machines, building test facilities and carrying out tests in a gradual manner, so as to avoid the test technology lagging behind the research and development technology. It is recommended that investment in testing technology be strengthened, systematic testing machines be constructed in a timely manner, and research in the areas of testing and targeting be enhanced, with a view to helping the maturation and application of new qualitative weapons.