Simulating HEL Lethality with Complex CAD Geometries is a Naval Postgraduate School thesis by Alex J. Shelander.

The US Navy has initiated research and development into shipborne high-energy lasers (HEL) for countering anti-ship cruise missiles (ASCM) in the terminal phase. The existing modeling technique for assessing HEL lethality in COMSOL could not accommodate intricate geometries, limiting the ability to strategize against these threats effectively. The transition from a two-dimensional to a three-dimensional framework necessitated further exploration into error tolerances, precise melt velocities, and meshing methods. This progression ultimately paved the way for integrating computer-aided design (CAD) models.

Utilizing these models will facilitate accurate evaluations of HEL lethality against specific threats. This, in turn, will enable the development of suitable tactics and firing protocols to ensure the ship’s defense. The shift to a three-dimensional environment significantly enhances the Navy’s capacity to counteract terminal-range anti-ship cruise missiles by deploying high-energy lasers.

Publication Date- June 2023

Simulating HEL Lethality with Complex CAD Geometries contains the following major sections:

  • Introduction
  • Background
  • Damage Effects of Directed Energy
  • Model Setup and Methodology
  • Conclusion

Approved for public release.  Distribution is unlimited.

C-UAS Hub does not own this content and provides a link for users at the bottom of the page to access it in its original location. This allows the author(s) to track important article metrics related to their work. All credit goes to its rightful owner.

Author- Alex J. Shelander

For additional multimedia resources, please visit the Multimedia Library.

Post Image- ODIN System Installed on USS Stockdale (DDG 106) (Image Credit: C. R. Services, “Navy shipboard lasers: Background and issues for congress”)