Directed Energy Systems

The Directed Energy Systems program focuses on enhancing the Navy's capabilities through the AN/SEQ-4 Optical Dazzler Interdictor Navy (ODIN). This initiative addresses a critical gap identified in FY18, aiming to counter intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance threats. ODIN's primary mission is to disrupt Electro-Optical/Infra-Red sensors using multiple low-power lasers for optical dazzling. This shipboard system enhances battlespace awareness by effectively disrupting long-range surveillance systems.

The program objectives include maintaining and upgrading existing ODIN systems on DDG 51 Flt IIA surface combatants. Starting in FY25, resources were shifted from the Lasers for Navy Applications research initiative to support these upgrades. The focus is on operational readiness through engineering change proposals that tackle reliability issues and component obsolescence. These updates are vital for adapting to emerging threats and ensuring the effectiveness of directed energy systems.

Furthermore, the program emphasizes procuring long lead time spares and repair parts to address onboard failures. This ensures critical system components remain functional and reliable during operations. A planned technology refresh will replace older components with newer technologies, improving system performance and sustaining operational readiness. Collectively, these efforts aim to strengthen the Navy's defensive capabilities against unmanned aerial systems and other platforms posing urgent operational challenges.