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.
Concerned about how artificial intelligence might be used to generate target lists or operational plans, lawmakers want to expand limits on autonomous weapons to address mission planning and target selection. The House Armed Services Committee's version of the 2027 National Defense Authorization bill would direct the Pentagon to revise Defense…