Article

The University of Rochester's Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE) has received a $5 million funding authorization to advance short-pulsed laser research under the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026. This funding will enhance the development of high-intensity, short-pulsed laser technologies, which are increasingly important in national defense, particularly for countering threats such as hypersonic missiles. The authorization was announced by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Chuck Schumer, and it is part of broader investments in defense research, service member compensation, and various projects across New York state.