January 19th 2024.
Move over Star Wars, because laser weapons have officially become a reality. In a successful demonstration, the UK has fired a powerful laser beam at aerial targets using their new weapon, DragonFire. And the best part? It only costs £10 per shot, making it a much more cost-effective option compared to traditional destroyer missiles, which can cost up to £1million each.
The exact range of the weapon is still classified, but the Ministry of Defence has revealed that the precision of the laser is so advanced that it can hit a target the size of a £1 coin from a kilometre away. This line-of-sight weapon has the capability to engage with any visible target, making it a versatile and powerful tool for the armed forces.
During testing, DragonFire proved its effectiveness by destroying incoming drones from several miles away. The weapon is expected to be ready for use on ships within the next five years. The testing took place at the Ministry of Defence's Hebrides Range in Scotland, and according to Dr Paul Hollinshead, the chief executive of the MoD's defence science and technology laboratory, it marks a significant step forward in understanding the potential opportunities and threats posed by directed energy weapons (DEWs).
So how exactly does a laser weapon work? Well, it emits electromagnetic energy at a specific wavelength that is most effective in melting the target. The directed energy beam can cut through targets, disabling them or causing even more damage if it hits a warhead. And because it operates at the speed of light, it can engage with targets almost instantly. It can also be used to temporarily disable enemy attacks by "dazzling" sensors or individuals.
Defence Secretary Grant Shapps is excited about the potential of laser weapons, stating that they have the ability to revolutionize the battlefield by reducing the reliance on expensive ammunition and lowering the risk of collateral damage. He also emphasized the importance of investing in advanced technologies like DragonFire to maintain a competitive edge and keep the nation safe.
The successful trial of hitting aerial targets is just one of the many tests that have been conducted. Last year, a long-range laser was fired at various targets over different ranges at Porton Down. Additionally, it was announced that high-energy laser weapons will be integrated onto a Wolfhound military vehicle. And in a groundbreaking project, the UK has also unveiled plans to build a laser that is "a million billion billion times" brighter than the Sun. However, this Vulcan 20-20 laser will be used for scientific research and discovery in areas such as clean energy and cancer treatment, not for combat purposes.
It's important to note that the UK is not the only country developing directed energy weapons. The US and other countries are also investing in this technology, highlighting the growing importance of laser weapons in modern warfare. As we continue to see advancements in this field, it's clear that laser weapons will play a significant role in shaping the future of military operations.
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