UK Army’s Laser Weapon Successfully Neutralises Targets from Combat Vehicle

The UK’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) has successfully tested a laser weapon on an army vehicle, demonstrating its capability to neutralize targets from over 1km away.

In a significant step for military technology, the UK has successfully tested a laser weapon mounted on a British Army combat vehicle. The laser system, developed by Raytheon UK, was able to neutralize aerial targets at distances exceeding 1km, marking a pivotal moment in the country's defense capabilities.

UK Army’s New Laser Weapon Successfully Neutralises Targets from Over 1km Away

Key Points:

1. Successful Testing:

   • The test, conducted by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), demonstrated the laser's ability to neutralize targets at over 1km. This milestone represents a major advancement in military technology.

   
   

2. Versatile and Efficient:

   • Designed to combat enemy drones, the laser weapon is portable, affordable, and easy to operate. It features a command and control function, integrating seamlessly with broader battle management systems.

   
   

3. Development and Deployment:

   • Raytheon UK led the development of the system, which was mounted on a Wolfhound vehicle—a six-wheeled truck typically armed with a machine gun. The laser’s speed and precision outpace traditional weapons, capable of engaging targets faster than the speed of light.

   
   

4. Future Testing and Integration:

   • Following the successful trials, Dstl plans to conduct further tests with military personnel next year. These trials aim to validate the weapon’s battlefield readiness, building on previous tests of the advanced DragonFire laser weapon.

   
   

5. Technological Advancements:

   • The DragonFire laser, showcased in May, promises to provide a precise alternative to short-range missiles, with the capability to target and destroy small objects from a kilometer away. This technology underscores the UK’s push towards integrating advanced laser systems into its military arsenal.

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The UK’s successful test of a laser weapon on a combat vehicle marks a significant advancement in military technology, enhancing the UK's defense capabilities against aerial threats. As the system undergoes further testing and development, it is poised to play a crucial role in future military operations.

Source: Thenextweb