A model is developed for the momentum transferred to a solid from a laser‐supported gaseous detonation wave initiated in air above the surface. One‐dimensional gasdynamic analysis is used for the detonation wave moving away from the surface and cylindrical blast‐wave theory is employed to partially account for two dimensional effects. Momentum transfer coupling coefficients (impulse/laser energy) are calculated which are functions of the laser energy flux, pulse duration, and the beam and target surface areas. Results are compared with recent experimental data obtained using a high‐power CO2laser.