Knowledge of atmospheric parameters early in the development of a weapon system can provide decisive advantages. Similarly, by studying a threat's system vulnerabilities to meteorological conditions and atmospherics, that information can be used to help defeat threat systems.
Obscurant effects are dependent on both local atmospheric and surface conditions.
They can be compensated for by careful planning and knowledge of their effects on system performance. Developers and users need to know how much atmospherics and obscurants degrade the system so they can best know how to use the system in this threat environment. SLAD's investigations help predict system performance under a range of battlefield conditions, from relatively clear air through conditions similar to those used in artillery barrages.