A new directed-energy program aims to outfit a yet-undetermined air vehicle with a laser that can protect airborne platforms and defend bases, an Air Force spokesman tells Inside Defense. Called the High-Energy Laser Flexible Prototype (HFP), a recent request for information suggests the program will adopt an aggressive schedule. The Air Force asked for an off-the-shelf laser weapon system so it can quickly demonstrate and verify the prototype. "Assume a 12-month schedule constraint from the time of contract award...
