UDT 2022: Dstl explores feasibility of directed energy for submarine defence
Vanguard-class submarine HMS Victorious. Could UK RN submarines be fitted with laser weapons for air defence? (Photo: UK MoD/ Crown Copyright)
Research from Dstl explored how a laser weapon could be deployed on the mast of a submarine.
A directed-energy solution could be used to defend submarines from aerial threats, according to a study by the UK Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) presented at the UDT event in Rotterdam on 7-9 June.
Dstl senior principal advisor Tim Vickery outlined how laser directed-energy weaponry could be used in niche applications onboard submarines as a defence against aerial threats.
Vickery said it was possible to employ a directed-energy weapon on a submarine in a counter-ASW role with current technology.
While it is feasible to employ directed-energy armament in the role described, Vickery emphasised that future work beyond generic feasibility would
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
You may also like
More from Naval Warfare
-
![The FDI frigate: a growing success story with more opportunities to come]()
The FDI frigate: a growing success story with more opportunities to come
Designed as a multi-role frigate with both anti-submarine and air defence capabilities, Naval Group’s medium-sized FDI frigate increasingly stands out as a success story in an industry wrought with delays.
-
![Lessons shaping the next phase of Arleigh Burke production post-Flight IIA]()
Lessons shaping the next phase of Arleigh Burke production post-Flight IIA
The accelerated delivery of the final Flight IIA destroyer, USS Patrick Gallagher, showcases the payoff of years of workforce investment and process reform at Bath Iron Works, with the lessons feeding into Flight III production.
-
![Ukraine war drives ‘minimum deployable capability’ doctrine in uncrewed systems development]()
Ukraine war drives ‘minimum deployable capability’ doctrine in uncrewed systems development
Ukraine’s battlefield has rewritten the rules of uncrewed systems development. For Syos Aerospace, real-time operator feedback, lean serial production and a system-of-systems philosophy are central to its operating model.
-
![Sealift shortfalls set to drive opportunities across NATO navies]()
Sealift shortfalls set to drive opportunities across NATO navies
A new Council on Geostrategy primer warns that NATO cannot defend its own supply lines. As the alliance faces a sealift and logistics escort deficit, a wave of unawarded procurement is beginning to take shape.
