Laser seeker

Laser Seeker

A Laser Seeker is a type of guidance system used in various military applications, most notably in guided missile systems. The laser seeker functions by detecting and homing in on laser-illuminated targets, providing high precision and accuracy.

Functionality

The primary function of a laser seeker is to guide a missile or other projectile to its target. This is achieved by detecting the laser light reflected off the target. The seeker then uses this information to adjust the missile's flight path, guiding it towards the target. This process is known as laser guidance.

Types of Laser Seekers

There are two main types of laser seekers: Semi-Active Laser Seeker (SAL) and Active Laser Seeker (AL). SALs rely on an external source to illuminate the target with a laser, while ALs have an onboard laser to illuminate the target.

Semi-Active Laser Seeker

In a Semi-Active Laser Seeker system, the target is illuminated by a laser from an external source. This could be a ground-based unit, an aircraft, or even another missile. The seeker detects the reflected laser light and guides the missile towards the target.

Active Laser Seeker

In an Active Laser Seeker system, the missile itself carries a laser to illuminate the target. This allows for greater flexibility as the missile does not rely on an external source for target illumination.

Applications

Laser seekers are used in a variety of military applications. They are most commonly found in guided missile systems, such as the AGM-114 Hellfire missile used by the United States military. They can also be used in smart bombs, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and other precision-guided munitions.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Laser seekers offer several advantages over other guidance systems. They provide high precision and accuracy, making them ideal for targeting specific points on a larger structure. However, they also have some disadvantages. They can be affected by weather conditions, as rain, fog, or dust can scatter the laser light. They are also susceptible to countermeasures, such as laser jammers.

See Also

• Guidance system
• Laser guidance
• Guided missile
• AGM-114 Hellfire