DARPA planning to implement laser weapons to jets

DARPA is planning on implementing laser weapons that are liquid cooled on jets. These highly precise weapons called High Energy Liquid Laser Area Defense System (HELLADS) could be the future of air supremacy, targeted strikes, and defense against missiles and rockets.

DARPA describes the weapon system as "additional capability for offensive missions as well -- adding precise targeting with low probability of collateral damage."

The design plans to create a liquid cooled 150-kilowatt laser to be mounted on jets and bombers.

The image shown is an actual concept image. The integration will occur this year and firing tests may happen in 2014.

Another DARPA project, Aero-Adaptive/Aero-Optic Beam Control (ABC), will be firing backwards to stop seeker missiles targeted on jets. Though challenges like turbulence can create inaccuracy.