I actually worked on the first airborne laser lab (c-135) in the early 1970’s. USAF Kirtland AFB New Mexico.
That was when Nixon was president. How did it work out?
I actually flew the first airborne laser system called the Airborne Laser Lab (ALL).
I also remember the first airborne laser laboratory as well. I was with the 4950th Test Wing at WPAFB, OH in the early 80’s.