missile defense

[Sacamuelas]

http://www.cnn.com/2005/TECH/08/24/military.laser.reut/index.html

LONDON, England (Reuters) -- A U.S. Pentagon invention could make air combat resemble a battle scene from the movie 'Star Wars' with a laser so small it can fit on a fighter jet, yet powerful enough to knock down an enemy missile in flight.

The High Energy Laser Area Defense System (HELLADS), being designed by the Pentagon's central research and development agency, will weigh just 750 kg (1,650 lb) and measures the size of a large fridge

[Aequitas]

Just got word that DA has opened assignments to Alaska for missile defense. Apparently the mission was being tasked to NG Soldiers that were essentially "activated" for two year stints. However, due to the current OPTEMPO, the Army has decided to allow AD Soldiers the chance to volunteer for this assignment. Anyone else heard about this change or know the specifics on the unit? Should be an interesting assignment for those Soldiers wishing to complete the task.

[Razor]

I just asked, and found out that SECDEF denied AD assignments to the GMD Bn in AK. NORTHCOM really wants the AD positions, but as of right now they're not happening, as far as Rumsfeld is concerned. As for the NG assignments, it isn't really a full-time activation, but rather a mix of Title 10 and Title 32 depending on duty status, which is a real PITA for the Bn leadership in a lot of ways.