Directed Energy Prototyping

The Directed Energy Prototyping Program, managed by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center's Architecture and Integration Directorate, focuses on developing and evaluating prototype technologies such as high energy lasers and high power microwaves. These technologies are intended to become integral components of future Air Force missions. The program aims to bridge the gap between laboratory-based demonstrations and real-world operational environments, facilitating successful acquisition and operational capability implementation. By integrating directed energy systems with other operational systems like radar and command control, the program seeks to enhance mission effectiveness.

A key objective of the Directed Energy Prototyping Program is to enable acquisition program managers and warfighters to prototype, integrate, evaluate, and demonstrate weapon technologies in operational settings. This iterative process aims to mature directed energy technologies toward a production-ready design. The program also includes necessary civilian pay expenses for managing and executing these efforts. In 2023, a significant portion of funds was allocated for civilian pay expenses, with similar allocations forecasted for 2024.

The program's accomplishments include field effectiveness testing of Directed Energy Counter Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) effectors at overseas locations. It collaborates with entities like the Joint Counter Small Unmanned Aerial System Office to refine defense requirements for critical infrastructure and base defense. In 2025, plans include modifying laser systems for transportability and evaluating these systems in coordination with transition partners. The focus remains on testing, data collection, and analysis to assess reliability, manufacturability, maintainability, and mission effectiveness.

The acquisition strategy involves leveraging Other Transaction Authority (OTA) to select vendors based on best value determinations. The program has demonstrated prototypes in various phases since 2020, with ongoing assessments planned through 2027. These efforts aim to transition prototype weapon systems into programs of record by leveraging industry partnerships and sister service prototypes for field evaluation. Continued support is provided by the Directed Energy Transition Management Office at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico.