September 11, 2008 – U.S. Congressman Trent Franks (AZ-02) gave the following statement today on the major milestone in the development of the Airborne Laser (ABL) missile defense program by the U.S. Missile Defense Agency and its industry teammates.  A high-energy chemical laser onboard the ABL aircraft was successfully fired for the first time during ground testing at Edwards Air Force Base, California on September 7, 2008.

“The latest test of the Airborne Laser is proof positive that this weapon system is no longer the stuff of science fiction— it is scientific fact.  Each ground test fire improves the system and teaches us more about this amazing technology.  We are closing in on the first test firing of the Airborne Laser against a target missile in flight. 

“Once more, in light of this successful test, I would encourage skeptics to remember that Airborne Laser will be a crucial component of missile defense by destroying enemy ballistic missiles in those crucial moments after they are launched.  In spite of numerous budget cuts by those who remain skeptical of this program, the Airborne Laser program continues to make significant progress toward operational capability.”