Lockheed Martin Missiles & Space of Sunnyvale, Calif., announced that Raytheon Co. Electronic Systems of El Segundo, Calif., has conducted tests of the Airborne Laser's Track Illuminator Laser subsystem ahead of schedule. The Yb:YAG laser will paint a potential target with pulses of light to determine its speed, elevation and probable point of impact. The Airborne Laser team plans to incorporate the laser into the Beam Control/Fire Control system early next year for further tests.

The Airborne Laser will use a chemical oxygen iodine laser from TRW Inc. aboard a 747 aircraft from Boeing Co. to destroy theater ballistic missiles in their boost phase. Flight tests are scheduled to begin in 2002.