Laser neutralization of surface and buried munitions

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

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

    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.

    Original languageEnglish (US)
    Title of host publicationDetection and Sensing of Mines, Explosive Objects, and Obscured Targets XVII
    PublisherSPIE
    ISBN (Print)9780819490353
    DOIs
    StatePublished - 2012
    EventDetection and Sensing of Mines, Explosive Objects, and Obscured Targets XVII - Baltimore, MD, United States
    Duration: Apr 23 2012Apr 27 2012

    Publication series

    NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
    Volume8357
    ISSN (Print)0277-786X
    ISSN (Electronic)1996-756X

    Other

    OtherDetection and Sensing of Mines, Explosive Objects, and Obscured Targets XVII
    Country/TerritoryUnited States
    CityBaltimore, MD
    Period4/23/124/27/12

    All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

    • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
    • Condensed Matter Physics
    • Applied Mathematics
    • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
    • Computer Science Applications

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