US Air Force Research lab working on externally mounted pods with combat lasers and power systems

Air Force Chief Scientist Greg Zacharias told Scout Warrior in an exclusive interview that the AFRL (Air Force Research Lab) is already working on experimental demonstrator laser weapons able to bolt-on to an aircraft. The AFRL is working on externally-mounted POD with sufficient transportable electrical power.

Air Force Research Laboratory officials have said they plan to have a program of record for air-fired laser weapons in place by 2023. The first airborne tests are slated to take place by 2021.

Combat laser pods will be mounted onto B52s and C130s. Fighter planes would need more aerodynamic systems (like conforming fuel tanks) or lasers and systems that are mounted internally.

SOURCE - Scout Warrior, Air Force Research Lab