For the first time in history, scientists and engineers have successfully tested a high-power laser energy weapon from a combat vehicle of the British Army. This revolutionary test, carried out at the Dstl test site in Porton Down, demonstrated the ability of laser weapons to neutralize targets at a distance of more than 1 km.
The high-energy laser weapon mounted on the Wolfhound armored vehicle represents a significant step forward in the UK MoD's Land Laser Directed Energy Weapon (LDEW) programme, providing a significant advantage on the battlefield. This lightweight and portable system is the first laser weapon integrated on a ground vehicle in the UK.
The innovative demonstrator allows the Ministry of Defense and the British Army to assess the effectiveness of LDEW systems against modern threats. The next phase of testing will include tests involving the military later this year to assess the capabilities and benefits of the system in real-world conditions.
This system is completely portable, inexpensive and easy to operate. It is capable of tracking multiple targets and engaging faster than the speed of light.
Dstl CEO Dr. Paul Hollinshead noted that this is another significant step toward the introduction of energy weapons. He emphasized the importance of working with DE&S and industry to develop new critical capabilities, preparing the armed forces for future challenges.
Matt Kork, Dstl program manager, added that the collaboration between Dstl, DE&S and industry has enabled the rapid development of this laser demonstrator. He emphasized that the successful testing of this high-powered laser weapon is a key moment in efforts to improve the future operational capabilities of the British Army.
The laser system, developed in collaboration with a consortium of British suppliers, demonstrates the potential of advanced technology in modern warfare. The system works with a command and control system and can be integrated with radar and surveillance systems. The weapon can be mounted on different platforms to meet different operational needs.
James Gray, CEO of Raytheon UK, emphasized that the successful test of the first laser weapon integrated on a ground vehicle in the UK demonstrates the ability of the Raytheon system to track , attack and destroy targets from a vehicle. He also expressed hope that the British Army will experiment with weapons in the coming months, confirming its readiness for combat operations.