FedEx jets may soon be outfitted with defensive weapons. According to credible sources, FedEx has petitioned the FAA for authorization to equip a future fleet of Airbus A321-200 aircraft with an anti-missile laser system. The suggested technology would interfere with heat-seeking missile tracking by directing infrared laser light onto approaching projectiles.
According to the courier service, there have been “several” overseas incidents in which attackers employed portable air defense equipment against civilian aircraft. While no particular instances were provided, one of the credible sources cited Iran shooting down a Ukrainian aircraft in January 2020 (allegedly due to mistaking the plane for a cruise missile) and a Malaysian airplane taken down by Russia-backed Ukrainian rebels in July 2014.
FedEx applied for the laser system for the first time in October 2019. The FAA is willing to approve lasers but has recommended “special conditions” before they may be used. The technology would require failsafes to avoid activation on the ground and could not injure any aircraft or persons.
Countermeasures are not a new concept. As early as 2008, certain American commercial aircraft were equipped with anti-missile systems, and FedEx assisted in the testing of a Northrop Grumman countermeasure system. El Al, Israel’s national airline, has utilized anti-missile defense systems since 2004. FedEx’s intentions, on the other hand, would be huge and unusual for a courier company. Even if the dangers of attacks remain minimal, it would not be shocking if other commercial planes followed suit.
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