In a significant leap forward for British military technology, a groundbreaking laser weapon has successfully neutralised high-speed drones during recent trials, marking a new era for the nation's defence capabilities.
A New Dawn in Defence Technology
The DragonFire laser system, developed for the Ministry of Defence, demonstrated its formidable precision during tests at the MOD's Hebrides range. The laser accurately engaged and destroyed drones capable of flying at staggering speeds of up to 650km/h – which is twice the top velocity of a Formula 1 racing car.
This futuristic defence system, reminiscent of science fiction, boasts incredible accuracy, being able to target something as small as a £1 coin from a distance of one kilometre. Perhaps most remarkably, each discharge of this advanced weapon costs approximately £10 per shot, presenting a highly cost-effective solution for modern threats.
Accelerated Deployment and Economic Boost
The successful trial has prompted immediate action, with a substantial £316 million contract being awarded to defence firm MBDA. This investment will fast-track the delivery of new DragonFire systems to the Royal Navy from 2027.
In a significant acceleration of the original schedule, the laser technology will be fitted to a Royal Navy Type 45 destroyer five years sooner than initially planned. As part of the government's Strategic Defence Review (SDR), DragonFire stands as the first high-power laser from any European nation, positioning it among NATO's most sophisticated directed energy weapons programmes.
Beyond its military applications, this cutting-edge project will generate and sustain 590 jobs across the United Kingdom, underscoring how defence investment acts as an engine for economic growth. The distribution of these roles includes:
- 200 highly skilled jobs in Scotland
- 185 jobs in the South West of England
- 75 jobs in the East of England
Government and Industry Reaction
Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard MP, stated: "This high-power laser will see our Royal Navy at the leading edge of innovation in NATO, delivering a cutting-edge capability to help defend the UK and our allies in this new era of threat."
He added, "We are delivering on our Strategic Defence Review by backing British industry and creating hundreds more jobs, making defence an engine for growth across the UK."
Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander emphasised Scotland's crucial role in the project, saying: "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."
He further noted that the UK Government is transforming the defence sector into "an even more powerful engine for growth" that delivers security alongside skilled jobs and community prosperity.
