The US Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) has unveiled a new strategic orientation for its NIKE laser-target installation to advance the Department of Defense (DoD) nuclear mission.
This realignment represents a departure from the facility’s traditional emphasis on missions under the purview of the Department of Energy (DoE), particularly those connected to the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA).
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Collaborative efforts between NRL’s research personnel and the Air Force have enabled the NIKE installation to turn towards fulfilling key scientific and technological requirements that underpin the DoD’s nuclear deterrence strategies.
NRL laser plasma branch head Jason Bates stated: “NIKE is the world’s most energetic krypton-fluoride excimer laser, delivering ultrasmooth pulsed beams at a wavelength of 248 nanometres with two to three kilojoules of energy.
“These unique capabilities enable researchers to generate strong, stable shock waves and create exceptionally clean experimental conditions for studying extreme physical states of matter.”
The NIKE laser-target facility, established in 1995 with NNSA backing, was initially designed to investigate the physics of direct-drive inertial confinement fusion, contributing to the stewardship of the nation’s nuclear stockpile.
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By GlobalDataBates added: “This partnership between NRL and the Air Force Research Laboratory represents a vital leap forward in our ability to simulate and understand the extreme environments that nuclear assets must navigate.
“NIKE’s unique laser and diagnostic capabilities are unmatched, enabling us to close critical gaps in assessing the survivability of our platforms.”
In light of competitive advancements by nations such as China and Russia in excimer-laser technology, it is felt to be critical to ensure the operational integrity and security of the NIKE facility.
A strategy focused on recapitalisation and reinvestment is being implemented to guarantee NIKE’s continued contribution to enhancing US nuclear deterrence capabilities.
NRL plasma physics division superintendent Joe Peñano stated: “NRL’s NIKE facility is an important national asset with unique capabilities that allow it to serve a broad range of missions supporting stockpile stewardship, fusion energy research, directed energy, hypersonics, and fundamental studies of materials at extreme conditions.
“Its continued operation for the good of the nation remains our goal through its new focus.”
