High Energy Laser Systems Test Facility (HELSTF) Enhanced Laser and Range Operations. Environmental Assessment

摘要

HELSTF is the most comprehensive site in the United States capable of supporting directed energy technologies for the DoD, other government agencies, industry, and academia. HELSTF represents a national investment of approximately $800 million in high energy laser technology. As a result of the existing laser technologies and supporting infrastructure, which have an established record of successful and innovative laser testing, research, and development, HELSTF is an important national asset to support continued laser technologies. It is imperative that our nation's military and scientific communities have access to up-to-date facilities for increasingly complex research, development, testing, and evaluation of new and existing laser technologies. National defense also requires that foreign laser technologies be evaluated to counter threats to U.S. and Allied deployed forces. The purpose of the Proposed Action is to enhance the capability of HELSTF in order to better accommodate a more comprehensive suite of lasers, beam directors, sensors, associated equipment, meteorological equipment, multiple test areas, and pointing and tracking systems. The Proposed Action is needed for HELSTF to remain technologically competitive in directed energy development and to provide a comprehensive test facility for all aspects of military laser technology.