UK fast-tracks DragonFire laser to counter drone threats by 2027

The UK government has pledged to speed up the development and deployment of directed energy weapons. This move aims to counter the growing threat of low-cost drones. The announcement was made by Lord Coaker, Minister of State at the Ministry of Defence, in response to a written question. The first British-developed high-energy laser, DragonFire, will be installed on a Type 45 destroyer in 2027. This is five years earlier than originally planned. The UK will become the first European NATO nation to operationally deploy such advanced laser technology.

Directed energy weapons are seen as a cost-effective way to engage drone targets compared to traditional interceptor missiles. The UK is already a global leader in research on high-energy lasers and radio frequency weapons for this purpose. Alongside this, efforts are underway to accelerate drone protection for Royal Navy warships.

The technology is being developed across the armed forces to protect both land forces and fixed sites from cheap drones. Both initiatives seek to close the gap between the current drone threat and existing defences. The installation of DragonFire marks a significant step in the UK’s defence strategy. Directed energy weapons will provide a new layer of protection against drone threats. The government’s commitment to these advancements highlights the importance of staying ahead in modern warfare technology.