09.30 - 12.30 Workshop 1: Countering DEW - Fundamental Issues

Advancements in directed energy technology continue to be made with a corresponding increase in system developments and improvements. These technology innovations have led to improvements in proposed directed energy systems and the development of newer, more compact designs; both of which make directed energy weapons systems more practical. In addition, these advancements have made access to this technology of more interest to a wider range of users, in particular, potential adversaries. As a result, it has become necessary to understand the impact of directed energy weapons in greater detail and to determine methods to mitigate their effects.

This workshop provides an introduction to the field of counter-DEW; specifically this workshop will discuss the basic scientific aspects of protecting systems from DEW including system susceptibilities and vulnerabilities and review technologies available to counter the effects of DEW for various types of systems. Future research directions in counter-DEW technology will also be discussed.

By attending this workshop, you will develop an understanding of the technologies, issues and solutions surrounding efforts to counter directed energy weapon systems.

Topics you will learn about include:

• System vulnerabilities
• Sensor Hardening
• Propagation Effects
• Operational Techniques
• Directions in C-DEW

Led by
Dr Michael Cathcart
Georgia Tech Institute

13.30 - 16.30 Workshop 2: Exploring the Future Direction of Non-Lethal Weapons

Non-Lethal Weapons are an area of increasing interest, given the changing threat environment and recent civil unrest. However, whilst development of these technologies is strong, the deployment of these weapons has been restricted due to several complex issues, including the ethical implications of using them.

Led by a dedicated member of the European Non-Lethal Weapon community, this workshop will explore the future of Non-Lethal Weapons by examining current capabilities and the lessons learned from previous NLW programs to establish the foundations of how NLW’s can be utilised successfully in the future.

By attending this workshop, you will:

• Gain a Euro-centric view of a field traditionally led by the United States
• Understand the current capabilities, and requirements, of Non-Lethal Weapons
• Gain an insight into the future development of NLW’s, and the issues to be overcome in promoting their acceptance, both technically and morally.

Led by
Sjef Orbons
Senior Researcher
Netherlands Ministry of Defense