The British Army has successfully trialled a revolutionary weapon capable of taking down enemy drones at a fraction of the cost of traditional systems. Known as the Radio Frequency-Directed Energy Weapon (RFDEW), this cutting-edge “ray gun” uses high-frequency radio waves to disable unmanned aerial vehicles and other electronic threats.
The RFDEW can detect, track, and neutralise targets up to one kilometre (0.62 miles) away. It disrupts or damages critical electronic components within the target, rendering it inoperable. Unlike costly surface-to-air missiles, which can cost significantly more than the drones they are designed to destroy, the RFDEW achieves its objective at just 10p per shot.
A Major Milestone in Military Innovation
During a live firing exercise in west Wales, British soldiers tested a demonstrator version of the RFDEW against drones, proving its capability in real-world scenarios. The trials showcased the weapon’s effectiveness in countering threats across land, air, and sea with near-instantaneous results.
Defence Minister Maria Eagle hailed the development as “potentially game-changing” for the UK’s defence capabilities:
“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.”
Addressing the Rising Threat of Drones
The rise of low-cost drones has become a significant concern, as demonstrated by their devastating impact in the war in Ukraine and recent Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping. Suspicious drone activity has also been reported near sensitive military installations, including US bases in the UK and America.
Traditional defence systems, such as surface-to-air missiles, are often economically unsustainable for countering these threats, given the disparity in cost between the drones and the munitions used to destroy them. The RFDEW, however, provides an affordable and effective solution.
What’s Next?
The successful trial of the RFDEW represents a leap forward in the UK’s directed energy weapons programme, offering a glimpse of a future where advanced and cost-effective technologies can neutralise emerging threats. As development continues, the RFDEW could play a critical role in enhancing the UK’s defence capabilities while maintaining cost efficiency.
