DragonFire Laser. Credit UK MoD / DragonFire
The DragonFire laser has successfully shot down fast-moving drones in new tests, hitting targets over the horizon.
According to the Ministry of Defence, in the latest trials at the MOD’s Hebrides range, the system took down drones flying up to 650 km/h, marking the first time the UK has tracked and destroyed such targets beyond the horizon.
Each laser shot costs around £10, far cheaper than traditional missiles that can cost hundreds of thousands of pounds. The beam is accurate enough to strike a £1 coin from a kilometre away.
DragonFire Laser. Credit UK MoD / DragonFire
DragonFire is set to be installed on a Royal Navy Type 45 destroyer by 2027, five years earlier than originally planned.
A £316 million contract is awarded to MBDA to deliver new systems to the Royal Navy from 2027.
DragonFire Laser. Credit UK MoD / DragonFire
Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander said:
“This new £316 million contract award – and news that DragonFire has successfully taken down high-speed drones in the latest trials at the MoD’s Hebrides range – shows just how vital Scottish expertise is to the UK’s national security and why Scotland is globally recognised as a centre of defence excellence.”
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