Why FedEx Wants To Install Anti-Missile Systems on its Airplanes

A Kitted-Out Civilian Plane

FedEx had written a strange petition to the Federal Aviation Administration almost two years ago. 

The airline industry is no stranger when it comes to dealing with anti-aircraft threats such as MANPADS. For reference, more than 40 civil airplanes have been hit by MANPADS since the 1970s.

To fix this issue, the cargo company asked permission to add laser-based anti-missile countermeasure systems to its Airbus A321-200 planes.

According to the official FAA document, the FedEx missile defense system plans to direct infrared laser energy toward incoming missiles to interrupt the missile’s path.

Unfortunately for them, it didn’t take long for the FAA to respond to their proposal. The FAA told reporters that further internal study was necessary for the petition to be considered.

Would allowing FedEx to field such defense systems be a good idea? Tell us in the comments below!