airborne laser

Definition/Scope: The airborne laser (ABL) includes four major components: a modified 747 aircraft, which serves as the platform for other components; a high-energy chemical laser; a beam control and fire control system; and a battle management and command and control system. The high-energy laser is a chemical oxygen-iodine laser that generates energy through chemical reactions. The beam control and fire control component is designed to track and stabilize the beam so that its energy remains focused on a small area of an enemy missile. The ABL uses its high-energy laser to defeat enemy missiles by rupturing a missile's motor casing, causing the missile to lose power.

Acronym:

ABL

Broader Terms:

laser beam
Missile Defense Agency
USAF

Narrower Terms:

Chemical oxygen iodine laser
missile defense
YAL-1 Airborne Laser