The UK has announced a significant breakthrough in the development of weapons with directed energy, such as high-energy lasers and radio frequency systems, with a particular focus on the Dragonfire project.
The initiative has received a new investment of close to $ 1.37 billion, and the latest tests have shown the effectiveness of these weapons against drones – even in unfavorable weather conditions. The British government considers these technologies crucial to ensure the defense’s safety against modern threats such as missiles and unmanned aircraft.
Defense Minister Maria Eagle stated that over 300 fires with the Dragonfire system confirmed the reliability of the technology, including neutralization of 30 drones. In addition, a successful test was conducted with a radio frequency weapon in collaboration with the British army. According to Eagle, these weapons offer low costs per shooting and require less logistics compared to conventional weapons.
The investment reflects a strategic shift in the Ministry of Defense and is in line with NATO’s efforts to modernize the Member States’ military capacity. Although the systems are still in a pre-operative phase, laser and RF technology are considered key elements of the UK’s future defense-thanks to their ability to react quickly and cost-effectively to increasing threats on the battlefield.
Source: UK Defence Journal | Photo: x @Dstlmod | This content is made with the help of artificial intelligence and reviewed by the editors
We have achieved a UK first with the high-power firing of a #laser weapon against aerial targets
Our experts worked with our world-class partners @MBDA_UK, @Leonardo_UK and @QinetiQ to help #Dragonfire reach this milestone
— Dstl (@dstlmod) January 19, 2024
