Laser simulator provides weapons training Published Aug. 26, 2003 KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. (AFPN) -- A high-energy laser weapon simulator is helping F-16 Fighting Falcon pilots gain valuable experience with high-energy weapons. The simulator is located at the Fighter Weapons Training Branch in Mesa, Ariz.The simulator allows pilots to use those simulated weapons in tactical engagements against airborne and ground targets, according to Rudy Martinez, directed energy directorate high-energy laser fighter project manager. It also will help pilots develop tactics, techniques and procedures for new fighter laser systems, he said. "The ultimate goal is to have pilots use simulators to participate in war games and determine the utility of using high-energy laser weapons against an enemy who is using conventional weapons," Martinez said. "The simulator is fairly accurate in representing real-world laser weapons and very accurate in target engagements."According to Martinez, the directorate's lethality branch experts are investigating the feasibility of developing a common laser target damage model that can be integrated into other laser-weapon simulators. AFRL experts are currently investigating the future use of laser weapons on the Joint Strike Fighter, and the high-energy laser fighter is a major step in that effort. (Courtesy of Air Force Materiel Command News Service)