Military Laser Target Designators

Laser Target Designators

A laser designator is a laser light source used to define and mark a target for laser-guided bombs, missiles, or precision artillery. They can be mounted on aircraft, ground vehicles, naval vessels, or handheld.

Rather than shine continuously the invisible beam fires coded pulses at the target. Sensors on laser-guided munitions are then able to detect the rebounded beams and adjust course towards the target.

The biggest drawback of laser designators is that they work best in clear atmospheric conditions – adverse weather such as cloud, fog or rain, as well as smoke, can make targeting difficult or impossible.