The British Army has conducted “successful” trials of a radio frequency-directed energy weapon (RFDEW), which can neutralise drone swarms using radio waves.
The system is designed to detect, track, and engage various threats on land, air, and sea.
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With an effective range of up to 1km and a cost of 10p per engagement, the system presents an economical alternative to conventional missile-based air defence systems.
The RFDEW disrupts hostile threats by using high-frequency radio waves to damage or interfere with the electronic components of devices such as drones, rendering them inoperative.
The trials, led by a consortium comprising Thales UK, QinetiQ, Teledyne e2v, and Horiba Mira, support high-skilled jobs within the UK and align with the Government’s Plan for Change, which focuses on advancing technologies while bolstering national security.
The system’s automation allows for single-operator use and can be mounted on military vehicles for enhanced mobility.
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By GlobalDataThe Royal Artillery Trials and Development Unit and seven Air Defence Group have recently completed live firing trials in West Wales, marking the first successful engagement of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) by the British Armed Forces.
These user trials have allowed air defence personnel to assess the capability’s potential in various configurations, threat types, and engagement scenarios.
UK Defence Procurement and Industry Minister Maria 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.”
This follows the May development announcement by Team HERSA, a collaboration between the UK MOD’s Defence Equipment & Support and Defence Science and Technology Laboratory.
The continued trials will support further development and experimentation, as Team HERSA works closely with operators to refine RFDEW requirements, doctrine, and technology.
