UK seeks Directed Energy Weapons demonstrators
The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has published a Prior Information Notice to begin work on the development of three Directed Energy Weapons (DEW) as part of its Novel Weapons Programme.
The MoD is seeking three new DEW demonstrators to explore the potential of laser and radio frequency weapon technology and accelerate its introduction onto the battlefield.
Powered solely by electricity, the systems may be fuelled by a vehicle’s engine or a generator, significantly reducing operating costs and providing advanced flexibility for the frontline.
Laser weapons systems deploy high energy light beams to target and destroy targets and missiles. Radio Frequency weapons are designed to disrupt and disable enemy computers and electronics.
The new systems are expected to be trialled in 2023 on Royal Navy ships and British Army vehicles in order to inform improved understanding of DEWs, test the systems to their limits and assess how they could be integrated with existing platforms.
The MoD aims to invest up to £130 million in this programme of work, including the construction of the demonstrators, the creation of a new Joint Programme Office and the recruitment of personnel to manage the programme.
The MoD plans to carry out initial testing of the Dragonfire laser weapons system demonstrator, commissioned by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, later this year.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Defence Notes
-
UK releases security strategy and plans for future defence spending boost
The UK’s National Security Strategy brings together the recently released Strategic Defence Review (SDR), Strategic Security Review, AUKUS Review and Industrial and Trade Strategies. At the same time, the UK made a commitment to reach defence spending of 5% of GDP by 2035 and Germany committed to 3.5% by 2029.
-
Pentagon’s FY26 defence budget proposal is $130 billion more than US Congress plans to provide
The House Committee on Appropriations approved a FY2026 bill reducing investments in main defence programmes.
-
What role could holographic and 3D capabilities play in the warfare of tomorrow
Holographic and 3D technologies have been lauded by some for their ability to provide technical and operational advantages for military training and planning. But is the hype truly justified?
-
Unfolding the Golden Dome for America: Seven things you should know about the programme
Shephard talked to multiple experts about the most pressing concerns and considerations regarding the air defence system advocated by President Trump.
-
Industry welcomes UK Strategic Defence Review, but pressure remains on future defence investment plans
While industry reception to the SDR has been positive, questions still remain from analyst and trade associations about what this could mean for future investment and the future UK Defence Industrial Strategy.