The Directed Energy Test Science and Technology (DET S&T) Test Technology Area was initiated due to the current inability to conduct required full spectrum test and evaluation (T&E) on emerging directed energy (DE) weapon and threat systems prior to fielding and is funded by the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) Test Resource Management Center (TRMC). Successful DET S&T projects produce verified prototypes by advancing high risk, high payoff technologies for transition into a full T&E capability required for effective DE weapon system evaluation.

In parallel with this effort the DE T&E Capability (DETEC) program, funded by Central Test and Evaluation Investment Program (CTEIP), addresses key Joint Service DE T&E infrastructure needs identified as shortfalls in the DETEC Tri-Service Study. Both DET S&T and DETEC are managed by PEO STRI.