UK Ministry of Defence warns against unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) high energy laser reached a significant milestone by using a laser weapon for the first time, Dozens of drones successfully destroyedThis technological step aims to provide a cost-effective and effective solution to the growing threat of UAVs.
Advantages of Laser Technology
The Ministry of Defense states that the use of laser weapons offers several advantages over conventional ammunition:
- Unlimited AmmunitionLaser systems do not experience ammunition shortages because they operate on energy.
- Lower costs: Cost of a shot Under £10 it can happen.
- Speed and Precision: Thanks to advanced sensors and tracking systems, lasers can quickly lock onto moving targets.
- Eco-Friendly: Minimizes the environmental damage of conventional explosive ammunition.
Wolfhound Armored Vehicle and Tests
The British Army 16th Royal Artillery Regiment, With the laser system mounted on the Wolfhound armored personnel carrier It has been successful against UAVs. The tests were carried out in Wales At the Radnor Shooting Range This laser:
- UAVs More than 1 kilometer away was able to destroy.
- Proven effective against moving targets.
- It attracted attention with its portability and ease of use.
Threats and UAV Use on the Ukrainian Battlefield
The conflict in Ukraine has once again demonstrated how effective and widespread UAVs are on the modern battlefield. Infantry units are often multiple UAVs under constant harassment. Ukrainian troops use thousands of drones every week:
- Reconnaissance and artillery adjustment for small commercial quadcopters.
- First-person view UAVs loaded with explosives, poses lethal threats at low cost.
Western Armies’ Counter-UAV Efforts
Western militaries are developing a variety of technologies to counter UAV threats:
- US Army: Testing laser-equipped Stryker combat vehicles.
- France: Deployed prototype on-board laser systems during the Paris Olympics.
- England: Continues to evaluate more powerful laser systems such as DragonFire in air defense.
DragonFire Laser System and Other Developments
The UK continues to develop different technologies, also testing the DragonFire laser weapon. MBDA, Leonardo and QinetiQ in collaboration The developed DragonFire offers the advantages of high precision targeting and low cost of use. The firing cost of this system is also very low, per shot Less than £10.
Future Perspective
The Department of Defense has announced that high-energy lasers will increase the air defense capacity of the troops and states that it will reduce costs. Stephen Waller, states that laser technology is rapidly developing and provides a significant advantage against the UAV threat on the battlefield.
The UK’s work on laser weapons has huge potential for both the army and navy going forward, with the systems being developed providing new and effective solutions to protect soldiers in modern conflict situations.
The Laser Age on the Modern Battlefield
The UK’s investment in high-energy laser technology is a strategic move to respond to the changing nature of modern warfare. The use of laser systems against UAVs could be a turning point not just for the UK but for defence strategies around the world. More cost-effective, environmentally friendly and effective solutions are ushering in a new era on the battlefield.
