Tactical laser system testing: evolution and challenges

A key issue in the Fire Control Systems (FCS) test arena is the testing of laser rangefinders, designators, and spot trackers. Technology advances and systems evolution has made this testing much more difficult. Problems include: coaxial laser systems, linearly polarized lasers, higher energy laser systems, and eyesafe laser wavelengths. We will present a description of laser testing, modern laser system test challenges, some evolution of laser testing, and possible solutions to today's FCS laser system testing problems.