Overview
- The Ministry of Defence signed a £316 million deal with MBDA UK to deliver the DragonFire laser directed energy weapon following successful trials.
- Trials at the MoD Hebrides range tracked and destroyed drones flying up to 650 km/h, including the UK’s first above‑the‑horizon laser intercept.
- Ship‑fitted systems are planned to begin entering Royal Navy service on Type 45 destroyers in 2027 as an initial deployable capability.
- Each shot is reported to cost only tens of pounds, far less than advanced gun rounds or missile interceptors.
- MBDA leads the effort with QinetiQ and Leonardo, described as Europe’s first high‑power laser heading for service and credited with supporting about 590 skilled roles.