Army-trialled ray gun that prices 10p a shot might be a ‘game-changer’ in drone warfare
The Radio Frequency Directed Energy Weapon (RFDEW) detects and destroys threats and are more cost-effective compared to traditional weapons like surface-to-air missiles
A ray gun that zaps drones from the sky has been successfully trialled by the British Army.
The Radio Frequency Directed Energy Weapon (RFDEW) detects and destroys threats on land, air and sea up to a kilometre away and costs just 10p a shot.
They are more cost-effective compared to traditional weapons like surface-to-air missiles, which cost more than the low-cost drones they are trying to shoot down.
High-frequency radio waves disrupt or damage critical electronic components inside targets, including unmanned vehicles, which immobilises them. In the case of drones it causes them to fall out of the sky.
The system can be operated by a single person and mounted on a military vehicle.
The Royal Artillery Trials and Development Unit and 7 Air Defence Group successfully trialled a demonstrator version in a live firing exercise against drones in west Wales.
It is hoped the weapon, described by defence minister Maria Eagle as “potentially game-changing,” could turn the tide in future battles featuring drone warfare.
Drones have played a huge part in the war in Ukraine, but there have been recent reports of suspicious drone sightings at US bases in both US and Britain.
Last month Defence Secretary John Healey announced that the British Army’s main drone system was to be axed along with other “outdated” military kit.
The Ministry of Defence said this latest trial marks a “pivotal moment in the UK’s ongoing efforts to enhance the future operational capabilities of the Armed Forces and offers a precise, powerful, and cost-effective means to defeat multiple aerial threats.”
Ms Eagle said: “The successful firing by the British soldiers of our radio frequency-directed energy weapon is another step forward for a potentially game-changing sovereign weapon for the UK.
“It’s great to see defence experts and industry working collaboratively to put cutting-edge equipment in the hands of our armed forces.
“This is a demonstration of the UK remaining at the forefront of directed energy weapons and developing a crucial advantage against the emerging threats we face.”
For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.
