Northrop Grumman has matured the technology for its All Semiconductor Airborne Laser Threat Terminator system that is designed to protect aircraft from infrared-based anti-aircraft threats, announced the company on Oct. 23. ASALTT is an advanced technology quantum cascade laser that can defend fixed-wing and rotary-wing platforms, either over land or at sea, according to the company’s release. The technology has undergone “multiple field and lab tests” that “have proven the product line to be successful in countering a variety of threats, including current and advanced scenarios,” states the release. The modular architecture is upgradeable and supports a variety of concepts of operation. “ASALTT is more than just new technology. It enables users to solve multiple critical problems with one solution,” said Gordon Stewart, general manager of Northrop Grumman’s Laser Systems business unit.
Advancements in commercial space technology could make President Donald Trump’s proposed “Golden Dome” missile defense network far more likely to succeed than the failed “Star Wars” strategic umbrella initiative of the 1980s, U.S. Space Command’s top general said May 22....