Design considerations for air-to-air laser communications

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Abstract
The US Air Force has identified laser communications (lasercom) as a viable technology for several air-to-air communications applications, namely Strategic Data Exchange (SDE) between airborne command post (ABCP) aircraft and intraformation data links among fighter aircraft or low-flying, close-formation aircraft. Lasercom offers low probability of intercept (LPI), jam resistance, and high bandwidth capabilities due to its very short wavelength compared to radio frequency (RF) systems. This paper examines the requirements of lasercom systems to support these missions and presents the systems link analysis necessary to select preferred approaches. The state of key technologies such as lasers, detectors, filters, coding, acquisition, etc., form a basis to structure conceptual systems that meet mission requirements. There have been recent advances in these key technologies, which will significantly improve air-to-air lasercom system performance. The resultant systems are low risk and could be developed in minimum time. Adverse weather is a factor in lasercom capability, so several weather conditions are included in the analysis. The preferred systems are described and, finally, conclusions and recommendations are given that could lead to development of a prototype terminal for one of the above missions.

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