Beam weapons

the long version

This book describes the technology and uses of high-energy laser and particle-beam weapons both on the battlefield and in strategic defense against nuclear attack. Technical issues covered include high-energy lasers, particle beams, x-ray lasers, microwaves, pointing and tracking systems, beam delivery, reliability, and atmospheric effect on beams. Potential missions covered include missile defense, anti-satellite weapons, aircraft use, and battlefield weapons. This book also covers the Reagan administration's "Star Wars" program, prospects for development of practical beam weapons, and their implications for military strategy and global policy.