The ground-breaking test was conducted at Dstl’s (Defence Science and Technology Laboratory) range in Porton Down. The laser weapon neutralised targets at distances in excess of 1km.
As part of MoD’s Land Laser Directed Energy Weapon (LDEW) Demonstrator programme, the laser was mounted on a British Army Wolfhound armoured vehicle for the tests.
Drones
The technology is intended to be a low-cost, precise and powerful defence against aerial threats, such as drones.
It involves a radar surveillance system with tracking capabilities that provides soldiers with a feed of different targets in different locations, and a management system to prioritise particular targets.
Specifically the trials were the result of Dstl, DE&S and a consortium of UK suppliers, including Raytheon, working together.
British army
“The successful testing of this high-powered laser weapon marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to enhance the future operational capabilities of the British Army,” said Matt Cork, Dstl Programme Lead. “This technology offers a precise, powerful and cost effective means to defeat aerial threats, ensuring greater protection for our forces.
The next phase of testing will take place later this year, involving trials with Army personnel later this year. Thsi will be to further evaluate the system’s capabilities and benefits in more real-world scenarios.
“This is another significant milestone in accelerating the adoption of directed energy weapons,” added Dstl chief executive Dr Paul Hollinshead.
“Working ever closer with DE&S and industry to develop critical new capabilities, we are preparing the armed forces for the future so they can detect, disable and destroy future and novel threats.”
Image: Ministry of Defence – Graphical representation of the laser firing. Below a screenshot from the video.
See also: Raytheon UK aims for delivery of first high-energy laser weapon system