How can you protect laser systems from enemy attacks?

1 Jamming resistance

Jamming is the intentional interference of a laser signal by an adversary using a stronger or similar wavelength source. Jamming can reduce the accuracy, range, or power of a laser system, or even prevent it from functioning at all. To resist jamming, you can use several methods, such as frequency hopping, polarization diversity, beam shaping, or adaptive optics. Frequency hopping means changing the laser wavelength rapidly and randomly to avoid matching the jammer's wavelength. Polarization diversity means using different orientations of the electric field vector of the laser beam to reduce the jammer's effect. Beam shaping means modifying the spatial distribution of the laser intensity to create a more complex or irregular pattern that is harder to jam. Adaptive optics means using a deformable mirror or a liquid crystal device to adjust the laser wavefront in real time to compensate for atmospheric turbulence or jamming distortion.

2 Spoofing detection

Spoofing is the deception of a laser system by an adversary using a fake or modified laser signal. Spoofing can trick a laser system into following a wrong target, missing a target, or activating a false alarm. To detect spoofing, you can use several methods, such as code modulation, coherence measurement, or spectral analysis. Code modulation means encoding a unique or secret pattern or sequence into the laser signal that only the legitimate receiver can recognize. Coherence measurement means comparing the phase or amplitude stability of the laser signal with a reference signal to identify any anomalies or fluctuations. Spectral analysis means examining the frequency or wavelength components of the laser signal to detect any deviations or impurities.

3 Blinding prevention

Blinding is the damage or impairment of a laser system's sensor or detector by an adversary using a high-intensity or high-energy laser source. Blinding can cause permanent or temporary loss of vision, sensitivity, or resolution of a laser system, or even destroy it completely. To prevent blinding, you can use several methods, such as protective filters, optical limiters, or shutter mechanisms. Protective filters mean using optical elements that block or attenuate unwanted wavelengths or intensities that can harm the sensor or detector. Optical limiters mean using nonlinear optical materials that change their transmission or absorption properties depending on the incident light intensity, thus limiting the amount of light that reaches the sensor or detector. Shutter mechanisms mean using mechanical or electronic devices that close or open the sensor or detector aperture in response to a blinding threat, thus blocking or reducing the exposure time.

4 Destruction avoidance

Destruction is the physical destruction or disablement of a laser system by an adversary using a kinetic or explosive weapon. Destruction can render a laser system useless or ineffective, or even cause collateral damage or casualties. To avoid destruction, you can use several methods, such as camouflage, mobility, or hardening. Camouflage means using optical or material techniques to conceal or disguise the laser system from visual or infrared detection. Mobility means using platforms or vehicles that can move or relocate the laser system quickly or unpredictably to avoid being targeted or tracked. Hardening means using structural or shielding materials to protect the laser system from impact or blast effects.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?