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Trophy Active Defense System Not Quite A Force Field
The Trophy Active Defense System (ADS) is based on a system designed in Israel. The Trophy ADS system has three basic elements: Threat Detection and Tracking, Launching and Intercept. Threat detection is provided by sensor, including flat-panel radars, that are deployed so as to provide a fully hemispherical coverage area.
(Trophy ADS)
Once an incoming threat (like an RPG) is detected and tracked, the Trophy system creates a "beam" of fragments capable of destroying the incoming threat within 10-30 meters of the protected platform. Multiple targets can be engaged simultaneously.
(Incoming threat destroyed)
General Dynamics plans to introduce the system with every new and existing combat vehicle it produces, including Stryker, M-1A2 and FCS. It can be adapted to US requirements and enter production within two years.
The system has completed hundreds of live test exercises with the Israel Defense Forces; Trophy ADS has demonstrated effective neutralization of anti-tank rockets and guided missiles, high safety levels, insignificant residual penetration and minimal collateral damage.
Obviously, this system fails to meet the standards for a science-fictional "force field." However, the ability to defend a hemispheric section would probably remind sf fans of David Drake's Hammer's Slammers series, which has a similar device. Earlier mentions of the full-blown force-field idea include the force-field from 'Doc' Smiths 1931 novel Space Hounds of IPC and especially the half-sphere force-field from Robert Heinlein's 1951 novel Between Planets.
Read more at Defense-Update and TechBlog. Thanks to Gil for writing with the story tip and references.
Scroll down for more stories in the same category. (Story submitted 4/10/2006)
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