Lasers for Ballistic Missile Defence-An Update

Abstract

The concept of ‘layering’ as applied to possible architecture for ballistic missile defence is well known. Original suggestions of four layers, overlaying the four identifiable phases in the trajectory of a ballistic missile (see p.42), and intended to be applied serially, have in recent months, when SDIO architecture studies have come under further scrutiny, given way to suggestions of six, seven or even more layers. This ‘along path’ or horizontal layering is considered to be an essential feature in the quest to develop ballistic missile defences. However, two other types of layering appear now to have evolved, which at least make necessary a whole new set of viewgraphs and perhaps do cast some light on the emphasis placed on current and future programmes of the SDIO. These are ‘cross path’ or vertical layering of various elements of a system, and temporal layering as applied to the choice of technologies and the rate at which money is allocated to develop them.