The DragonFire laser weapon system, a cheap, quick-firing substitute for missiles, was tested by the UK Ministry of Defence, which was a major advancement in cutting edge military technology.

The UK has successfully fired a high-power laser weapon against an aerial target for the first time in a trial, aiming to pave the way for a low-cost alternative to missiles to shoot down targets like drones. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) described the test at its Hebrides Range in Scotland as a "major step" in bringing the technology into service. The technology could reduce the reliance on expensive ammunition and lower the risk of collateral damage. Both the Army and Royal Navy are considering using the technology as part of their future air defence capabilities. Laser-directed energy weapons (LDEWs) use an intense light beam to cut through their target and can strike at the speed of light. The DragonFire weapon system is being developed by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) alongside some industry partners on behalf of the MoD. The development of laser weapons comes amid the increasing use of drones in warfare, which has been seen during the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The DragonFire is the result of a £100m joint investment between the Ministry of Defence and the arms industry.

January 19, 2024
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