The Advanced Tactical Laser concept program has progressed, with the addition of a high-energy chemical laser to the C-130H demonstration aircraft, according to a Boeing release. The company, which received the C-130 two years ago to begin modifications and low-power flight tests, last week added the HEL and its 12,000-pound subsystem, aligning it with the beam control system, at Kirtland AFB, N.M. Boeing VP Scott Fancher called it “tremendous progress,” adding that the test team will fire the laser at ground targets next year.
The Pentagon has concluded a new agreement to buy laser-guidance kits that turn rockets into drone-killing weapons. BAE Systems and the Defense Department announced a framework deal of up to seven years for 25,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System guidance kits annually for the U.S. military.