UK's DragonFire laser marks a new era in defence technology
The British have announced the successful test of their DragonFire laser system, a promising leap forward in anti-aircraft and anti-drone defence technology.
The DragonFire laser, a product of a collaboration between QinetiQ, and the UK branches of MBDA and Leonardo, showcases cutting-edge advancements in laser weaponry. QinetiQ brings to the table its 50 kW laser technology and the ability to adjust the beam's power. Meanwhile, Leonardo manages the fire control system, and MBDA oversees the command and control aspects.
Many countries are delving into laser weapon research, and the UK is keen to match the progress of nations like the USA and Germany. Successfully downing an airborne target heralds a significant achievement for the UK's program, complementing existing missile-based anti-aircraft systems.
Laser weapons — the future of anti-air and anti-drone defense
Laser technology promises to outshine anti-aircraft guns by broadening the scope of targets and offering unparalleled accuracy. The British system claims the ability to strike a target as small as a 1-pound coin from nearly a mile away.
Such precision far exceeds what traditional gunpowder weapons can achieve. Additionally, the cost of neutralizing a threat is estimated at just £10, making it significantly more economical than the alternatives, such as a volley of fragmentation missiles or even a handful of programmable missiles from conventional anti-aircraft artillery.
At present, the UK has a mobile 50 kW version of the system, with efforts to double this power ongoing. Increasing the laser's power is crucial for swiftly compromising the structural integrity of a missile or aircraft, leading to its destruction by detonating the warhead or igniting the fuel.
However, it's important to note that laser weapons are not flawless. Their complexity and sensitivity to adverse weather conditions like rain or fog can hamper their effectiveness.
