7THELcitUSAF

February 28, 2010

The Tactical High Energy Laser (THEL) is a deuterium fluoride laser. The THEL is similar to the now- discontinued and highly controversial Mid-Infrared Advanced Chemical Laser (MIRACL) weapon, which was also a deuterium fluoride laser. MIRACL was both a missile defense system and anti-satellite weapon. The THEL employs advanced pointing, tracking and beam stabilization systems, which are universal for land, air and space-based lasers. Like many directed-energy weapons, THEL is referred to as a defensive system. (United States Air Force)