News International Proliferation of Anti ICBM Lasers

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Lasers are proposed as a safer alternative to traditional missile defense systems for several reasons. They can be easily distributed and mass-produced, allowing for redundancy and lower costs compared to rockets. Lasers operate faster than rockets and offer a variety of options for missile defense, potentially rendering nuclear weapons less effective. The discussion highlights the engineering challenges of developing laser-based systems, including the need for precise targeting and overcoming atmospheric interference. The potential for deploying lasers on orbital platforms is mentioned, though concerns about the practicality and effectiveness of such systems are raised. The conversation also touches on the limitations of current missile defense technologies and the political implications of missile defense funding, emphasizing the need for realistic assessments of their capabilities. Overall, the debate reflects a mix of optimism about laser technology and skepticism regarding its current feasibility and operational effectiveness.
  • #31
slugcountry said:
Are ICBM's vulnerable to emp?

Not anymore i think. Both sides during the Cold War had the idea to detonate nuclear weapons in the atmosphere hoping the EMP would disrupt the enemies missiles. Since it's fairly easy to shield things against EMP, I'm sure both sides have hardened their missiles for EMP attacks.

Also, the idea of tossing up and detonating multiple nuclear weapons into the atmosphere as a deterent was found to be rather impractical.
 
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