Tactical Implications of Directed Energy Weapons for Combat Aircraft

The effectiveness against all types of target of area focussing directed energy weapons small and light enough to be fitted to combat aircraft is considered. The technical and tactical advantages of combining these weapons with STOVL combat aircraft are noted. Their relationship to stealth, jamming and other countermeasures is explored. Tactics which may be used to gain air superiority and to attack ground targets are examined. STOL and STOVL tactical transports and tankers equipped with and protected by directed energy weapons to refuel and rearm such combat aircraft in the field are discussed. An organisation for an expeditionary force endowed with the highest possible strategic and tactical mobility by incorporating such aircraft is then developed logically from first principles.