US Air Force will add laser Cannons on it's fighter jets till 2030

According to the recently published RFI (Request for Information), the ARFL (Air Force Research Laboratory) is looking forward to the development of laser weapons for next generation fighter jets.

Even if this is an Air Force initiative, it is possible that the Navy and U.S. Army will run similar independent research programs.

The U.S. Air Force plans to employ laser-based weapons by 2030.

“Three new laser devices are to be created: small power marking laser, that would act as a marker and as a blinding weapon against the optical sensors of the enemy planes; medium power laser that is to be used against air-2-air missiles; and a high power device to act as an offensive weapon,” according to the Aviationist.

The 2030 timeline for the fighter jets dictates, to some extent, other progress markers. The date that weapon elements are slated to be ready for laboratory testing is October, 2014. Given that, simulated tests in “operational environments” are eyed for 2022, according to The Aviationist.