The UK’s armed forces are developing a new weapon that uses radio waves to disable enemy electronics and take down multiple drones simultaneously. This innovative technology, known as the Radio Frequency Directed Energy Weapon (RFDEW), is part of the UK’s effort to enhance its defense capabilities following a recent increase in the defense budget.
The RFDEW can reportedly detect, track, and engage a variety of threats across land, air, and sea, with an effective range of up to 1 kilometer. The system disrupts or damages the electronic components of enemy vehicles, causing them to cease functioning or crash. Notably, each shot fired by the RFDEW costs only 10 pence, making it a cost-effective alternative to traditional missile-based air defense systems. Its high level of automation allows for operation by a single person, offering a versatile solution for protecting critical assets and bases.
Minister for Defence Procurement James Cartlidge highlighted the importance of such technological advancements, stating, “Developments like RFDEW not only make our personnel more lethal and better protected on the battlefield but also keep the UK a world leader on innovative military kit.” He emphasized the need for defenses against uncrewed systems, underscored by the conflict in Ukraine.
The new British Radio Frequency Directed Energy Weapon that shoots down swarms of enemy drones from up to a kilometre away for £.0.10 a shot rather than our Dragon Fire Laser System at £10.00 a shot We’ll update you when we have a cool name, we take that shit seriously pic.twitter.com/eI3zWnd0w0
— Herman Moore (@HermanM50891526) May 17, 2024
Dstl Chief Executive Paul Hollinshead noted the significance of the RFDEW, stating that it will provide a decisive operational advantage to the UK armed forces. “World-class capabilities like this are only possible because of decades of research, expertise, and investment in science and technology,” he said.
The RFDEW is being developed by a joint team from the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) and Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), in collaboration with UK industry under Project Hersa. The system is set to undergo extensive field testing with British soldiers over the summer. Further development aims to extend its operational range.
The UK’s defense strategy includes various directed-energy weapons, such as the Dragonfire laser weapon, which is also in development. The Dragonfire is designed to precisely target threats with minimal collateral damage and at a lower cost than conventional missile systems. Both the RFDEW and Dragonfire reflect the UK’s commitment to staying at the forefront of military innovation.
Directed-energy weapons are gaining importance globally, with countries like the United States, France, China, Germany, Russia, India, and Israel also investing in similar technologies. The Pentagon is spending $1 billion annually on developing such weapons to counter drones and missiles. Directed-energy weapons are seen as a crucial component of future warfare, particularly in countering drone swarms and other emerging threats.
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