AN/PAQ-1
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The AN/PAQ-1 is a near infrared shoulder/tripod-mounted 16 lb. laser rangefinder/laser designator used by forward observers to obtain target range, and designate targets.[1] This battery-operated laser device has a maximum effective range of 1,500 meters.
The laser designator transmits a coded laser beam that is used to designate point or area targets. These can be detected by aircraft for various purposes, but also munitions such as the Copperhead 155 mm howitzer shell, Hellfire or Maverick missiles can home in on the laser spot.
Development on the AN/PAQ-1 began in 1960 by the Hughes Aircraft Company, shortly after Theodore Maiman made the first successful laser the same year.[1] It reached initial operating capability in 1979.
See also[]
References[]
- ^ a b "Laser Target Designator". National Museum of American History Behring Center. Smithsonian Institution. Retrieved 8 July 2021.
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