[Marathon]

I agree that this weapon would be most useful in small-scale engagements. It's been developed in collaboration with the Israeli army (this is the same system that has shot down 25 Katyusha rockets, including salvo launches, in tests). Just the sort of thing needed to prevent Hezbollah from an occasional terror strike over from Lebanon.

I read in another article (I work for TRW, and read a daily news digest pertaining to our company) that the Joint Strike Fighter is "expected" to have a laser weapon as part of its arsenal. Apparently the most likely form for it to take will be as a standalone unit that can be attached in place of those external fuel tanks. Unfortunately I don't recall more details.

[Free the USA]

http://www.freerepublic.com/perl/bump-list

[Woodman]

I think it is too big for the JSF but have a look at my post #55.