“We’re painting with broad strokes, but we're diving into what missions of the future will look like. The technology is not quite Star Wars, but we’re getting close,” said Jeremy Murray-Krezan, AFRL's directed energy deputy chief scientist, says.
CSIS's Todd Harrison said he believes that the "many challenges" to the SHiELD concept can be overcome "with time and money" -- and could well be worth expending because of the potential benefits.
Michigan’s defense ecosystem and expertise makes it a special asset for production.
"Low-collateral effect interceptors" against small drones would be used in "defeating small UAS in urban environments, over sensitive sites, or situations where the rules of engagement would not allow kinetic effects," DoD's solicitation to industry says.
"We do in fact plan to deploy THOR in CY21 for operational field assessment, but will not confirm deployment locations or theaters at this time," an Air Force spokesman says.
"I've watched it in action and its really quite impressive," says Air Force Chief Scientist Richard Joseph.