AIR FORCE RESEARCH LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS STUDY The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is planning a new technology applications study to consider the feasibility and payoff of directed energy technology in airborne tactical missions. For the purposes of this study, directed energy is defined as laser and microwave technology. The study, entitled the Directed Energy Applications in Tactical Airborne Combat (DE ATAC) study, will be conducted in two phases. The first phase will consider a range of potential application and directed energy technology concepts and identify those that are most promising, considering technical feasibility, platform impact, mission priority, and potential for cost-effective implementation. A government team will conduct this phase, with contractor support from existing analysis contracts. It is anticipated that this phase will last approximately 3 months. During the second phase, the most promising application/technology concepts will be developed and evaluated in more detail, through concept development contracts to theaerospace industry. To inform industry about the objectives, scope, execution plans, and schedule for this study in anticipation of contractor involvement during the second phase, AFRL extends an invitation to interested organizations to attend the DE ATAC study kickoff meeting. This meeting will be held on 28 May 1998 at Wright-Patterson AFB, OH. Attendance at this meeting and future participation in the study will require a DOD SECRET clearance. Due to space limitations, attendance at the kickoff meeting from industry will be limited to 2 individuals per company as silent observers. Interested organizations should contact Mr. Steve Cloyd, AFRL/PRPS, (937) 255-9392, or Mr. William Thompson, AFRL/DEP, (505) 846-2251 for more information.

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