Laser neutralization of surface and buried munitions

James D. Habersat; Bradley W. Schilling; Joe Alexander; Thomas Lehecka

doi:10.1117/12.921219

10 May 2012 Laser neutralization of surface and buried munitions

James D. Habersat, Bradley W. Schilling, Joe Alexander, Thomas Lehecka

Proceedings Volume 8357, Detection and Sensing of Mines, Explosive Objects, and Obscured Targets XVII; 835718 (2012) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.921219
Event: SPIE Defense, Security, and Sensing, 2012, Baltimore, Maryland, United States

Abstract

In recent years NVESD has been investigating laser-based neutralization of buried mines and minelike targets. This paper covers the most recent efforts in this area. A field-test was conducted to demonstrate the state-of-the-art capability for standoff laser neutralization of surface and buried mines. The neutralization laser is a Ytterbium fiber laser with a nominal power output of 10 kW and a beam quality of M² ≈ 1.8 at maximum power. Test trials were conducted at a standoff range of 50 meters with a 20° angle of attack. The laser was focused to a submillimeter spot using a Cassegrain telescope with a 12.5 inch diameter primary mirror. The targets were 105 mm artillery rounds with a composition B explosive fill. Three types of overburden were studied: sand, soil, and gravel. Laser neutralization capability was demonstrated under these conditions for live rounds buried under 7 cm of dry sand, 4 cm of soil, and 2 cm of gravel.

Citation Download Citation

James D. Habersat, Bradley W. Schilling, Joe Alexander, and Thomas Lehecka "Laser neutralization of surface and buried munitions", Proc. SPIE 8357, Detection and Sensing of Mines, Explosive Objects, and Obscured Targets XVII, 835718 (10 May 2012); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.921219

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