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DIRECTED ENERGY PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY

Abstract: 24-Symp-131

UNCLASSIFIED, PUBLIC RELEASE

Plasma-Based Amplification and Wavelength Conversion Modules for Enhanced Laser Weapon System Performance and Versatility

High-energy laser systems have demonstrated significant potential for various directed energy applications, including counter-UAS, precision strike, and laser communication. However, the operational flexibility and multi-mission capability of these systems are fundamentally limited by the fixed output wavelength and narrow bandwidth of conventional solid-state and fiber laser sources. To address these limitations and achieve a leap-ahead in laser system adaptability, we propose the development and integration of novel plasma-based amplification and wavelength conversion modules.

Our approach leverages recent breakthroughs in backward Raman amplification (BRA) and collinear multi-photon scattering techniques, pioneered by researchers at Princeton University. These techniques exploit the unique properties of ionized gases to enable unprecedented regimes of laser intensity, bandwidth, and wavelength tunability. By integrating compact, high-power BRA and multi-photon scattering modules into existing laser weapon systems, we aim to provide orders-of-magnitude enhancements in performance and functionality without the need for a full redesign of the laser platform.

The proposed BRA module will enable efficient amplification of variable-wavelength seed pulses, with the potential for >100x gains and >10 J pulse energies across a broad range of militarily-relevant wavelengths (e.g., 1064 nm, 1550 nm, 2000 nm). The multi-photon scattering module will provide rapid, precise wavelength conversion (e.g., 1064 nm to 532 nm, 1550 nm to 775 nm) with >50% quantum efficiency and >1 kW average power handling. By combining these modules with state-of-the-art fiber laser technology, we envision the creation of a fully wavelength-agile, high-power laser system capable of rapidly adapting its output characteristics to meet diverse mission requirements.

This transformative capability would enable a wide range of new applications for laser weapon systems, including:

Flexible electronic warfare and communications, with rapidly tunable countermeasures and multi-band, high-bandwidth optical data links.
Adaptive remote sensing and target designation, with optimal wavelength selection for atmospheric transmission, target coupling, and covert marking.
Multi-domain directed energy, with tailored laser-matter interaction for enhanced lethality against diverse targets in air, sea, and land environments.
Advanced space-based applications, such as debris removal, asteroid deflection, and on-orbit servicing using agile, high-power laser beams.

To accelerate the development and deployment of this critical technology, we propose a focused 3-year research and development program, structured into three key thrust areas: (1) Wavelength-agile BRA module development, (2) Multi-photon wavelength conversion module development, and (3) System integration and field testing. The program will leverage extensive theoretical and computational models, while addressing key engineering challenges in laser-plasma interaction, thermal management, and ruggedized packaging for military applications.

Key milestones include the demonstration of a broadband, wavelength-tunable BRA module with >100x gain and >10 J pulse energy in Year 1, the integration of a >50% efficiency multi-photon conversion module with >1 kW average power handling in Year 2, and the final integration and field testing of a fully wavelength-agile, high-power fiber laser system in operationally relevant environments in Year 3.

Successful execution of this program, in close collaboration with DoD partners and end-users, would deliver a truly disruptive directed energy capability to the warfighter. The ability to rapidly optimize laser output characteristics for specific missions and threats would provide an asymmetric advantage across all domains, ensuring enduring U.S. military dominance in the electromagnetic spectrum. Furthermore, the proposed plasma-based technologies offer a clear path to surpass the fundamental limitations of traditional solid-state and fiber lasers, enabling transformative advances in power, precision, and flexibility for next-generation laser weapon systems.

We strongly believe that the development of wavelength-agile, high-power lasers using plasma-based amplification and conversion techniques represents a critical strategic opportunity for the DoD. By investing in this innovative approach, the U.S. military can establish a decisive lead in directed energy capabilities, deter potential adversaries, and unlock new possibilities for multi-domain operations and technological supremacy.

Cerebral Energy is proud to sponsor this groundbreaking research and development effort, bringing together leading experts in plasma physics, laser engineering, and national security to accelerate the deployment of this transformative technology. We look forward to working closely with the DoD community to realize the full potential of wavelength-agile, high-power lasers for 21st-century military dominance.

UNCLASSIFIED, PUBLIC RELEASE