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3w ago

UK Successfully Trials Cost-Effective Radio Wave Weapon Against Drone Swarms

The British Army demonstrated the RF Directed Energy Weapon neutralizing over 100 drones in its largest counter-drone exercise to date.

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A Ukrainian drone operator who gave the name Artem pilots an attack drone, as commander Andrii looks on (left), as Ukrainian soldiers of the 108th Territorial Defense Brigade test fly a Ukrainian-made Vampire drone near the southern frontline on February 21, 2024 in an unspecified area of Ukraine's southern Zaporizhzhia region.
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Overview

  • The UK Ministry of Defence confirmed the successful trial of a Radiofrequency Directed Energy Weapon (RF DEW) capable of neutralizing multiple drones simultaneously at a range of up to 1 km.
  • The largest counter-drone swarm exercise conducted by the British Army took place at a weapons range in West Wales, showcasing the system's ability to track and disable over 100 drones during the trials.
  • The RF DEW uses high-frequency radio waves to disrupt or damage drone electronics, offering a near-instant effect at a cost of approximately 10p per shot, significantly cheaper than traditional missile-based systems.
  • The UK government has invested over £40 million in RF DEW research and development, supporting 135 jobs and advancing domestic innovation in counter-drone technology.
  • Future development will focus on enhancing the weapon's range and power, with potential applications for protecting critical infrastructure such as defence bases and airports.