The Boeing Airborne Laser Testbed (ALTB) represents a pinnacle of airborne defense technology, merging high-energy lasers with a Boeing 747-400F platform. Operational from 2002 to 2012, this marvel of engineering was designed to intercept ballistic missiles during their boost phase, showcasing the potential for speed-of-light defense capabilities. The ALTB was a testament to innovation, featuring a megawatt-class Chemical Oxygen Iodine Laser (COIL) housed within an aircraft that could patrol at high altitudes. Its development marked a significant milestone in directed-energy weapons research, offering a glimpse into the future of military defense strategies. The program, although eventually shelved, demonstrated the feasibility of airborne laser systems, setting the stage for future advancements in defense technology.
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