KIRKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. - A high-powered laser was successfully fired for the first time from the Advanced Tactical Laser aircraft during a test conducted by the 413th Flight Test Squadron of Hurlburt Field, Fla., and Boeing. The ATL is the 46th Test Wing's modified NC-130H. The laser was fired over White Sands Missile Range, N.M., and hit a ground target. ATL is equipped with a chemical laser, a beam control system, sensors and weapon-system consoles. The system is designed to damage, disable or destroy targets with little to no collateral damage. It’s intended for use on the battlefield and in urban operations. The ATL program is managed by the 687th Armament Systems Squadron, part of the 308th Armament Systems Wing at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. (Source: AFNS, 06/19/09)
