The Laser Systems business unit of Northrop Grumman Corp. announced that its All Semiconductor Airborne Laser Threat Terminator (ASALTT) infrared countermeasure (IRCM) laser system has advanced to Technology Readiness Level 6 (TRL-6), a government measurement system that includes nine levels. The quantum cascade laser (QCL)-based mid-infrared device can protect fixed-wing and rotor aircraft, whether based at sea or on land. It was designed using “MOSA Inside,” a modular open systems approach (MOSA) to interior hardware and software that provides flexibility for upgrades. Northrop Grumman’s All Semiconductor Airborne Laser Threat Terminator (ASALTT) is an advanced QCL which provides protection for a variety of aircraft, whether on land or at sea. (Image: Northrop Grumman Corp.) At its Apopka facility and various sites throughout the country, ASALTT passed a series of thermal, vibration, shock and other tests equivalent to 2500 hours of field use conducted in accordance with military standard 810G. The QCL also met performance specifications for a variety of IRCM platforms, including the UH-60, C-17 and C-130 aircraft. “With field-proven capability, and the TRL-6 maturity, ASALTT is ready for integration into the next generation of aircraft-deployed counter-MANPADS systems,” said Gordon Stewart, vice president and general manager of Northrop Grumman Laser Systems. “ASALTT is ready to support flight testing and will greatly enhance IRCM system effectiveness, performance and protection of the warfighter.” Global security company Northrop Grumman provides systems, products and solutions for the aerospace, electronics, information systems and technical services to government and commercial customers. For more information, visit: www.northropgrumman.com