Originally Posted by awblain
There are good reasons that the 747 airborne laser is no longer.
Yes - its a laser using 30+ year-old technology for a start.
The size that this forces meant a large aircraft to carry it, but newer laser technology provides the same power in a much smaller & lighter package.
The same goes for the mechanical components - and all of this also applies for the aiming system, power generator, etc.
Additionally, it was an ABM program, meaning it required a longer-range fire-control system, a longer-range focusing system, higher power to overcome atmospheric attenuation of the beam's power, and so on.
The one being designed to fit inside the lift-fan space on a modified F-35B airframe is intended for much closer range, with the attendant reductions in required power, capability of the tracking & aiming system, and so on.