Advances in tactical laser radar

Laser radar has enjoyed significant advances over the past decade. Novel sensor topologies, compact laser illuminators, and advanced signal processing have enabled the construction of low power, portable 2-D and 3-D laser vision systems. The applications of such systems range from surveillance, targeting, weapons guidance, and remote scene measurement, to target identification and atmospheric characterization. This paper serves to assemble some recent significant examples of laser radar in the context of emergent tactical applications. Strengths and limitations of competing topologies are also examined.