Directed Energy Weapon Fires 13-Cent Shots Instead of Million-Dollar Missiles

A new directed energy weapon is being introduced to strengthen British defense capabilities. Costing only 13 cents per shot, it is as effective but significantly cheaper than the multi-million dollar missiles it aims to replace.

The Radio Frequency Directed Energy Weapon (RFDEW) is part of the British government’s strategy to address evolving geopolitical challenges, increasing defense spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2030. This policy shift also includes accelerating the deployment of lasers and other directed energy weapons.

The Economic Inefficiency of Using Multi-Million Dollar Missiles Against Low-Cost Drones

This is crucial because using a multi-million dollar missile to destroy a drone worth only a few thousand dollars is economically inefficient.

Navy Lookout reported the use of a US$1.3-2.5 million Sea Viper missile to down a US$20,000 drone. Furthermore, limited missile stockpiles could be rapidly depleted by swarms of low-cost drones.

Energy weapons address these issues by being remarkably inexpensive per shot, despite the initial cost of the weapon.

Since they use energy instead of physical ammunition, they can theoretically fire unlimited times as long as there is a power supply.

The Single-Operator RFDEW Capable of Multi-Platform Deployment

In fact, the RFDEW is a standalone energy weapon operable by one person, capable of detecting, tracking, and engaging multiple threats within a kilometer (0.62 miles). Various platforms, from warships to trucks, can mount it.

Its primary targets are drones and aircraft electronics, which it neutralizes with bursts of electromagnetic radiation.

Under Project Ealing’s development, the RFDEW is undergoing testing by the 7th Air Defence Group alongside the DragonFire laser weapon in September. These tests will assess the systems and identify potential improvements.

“We are already a formidable force in science and technology. Innovations like the RFDEW not only enhance our personnel’s lethality and protection on the battlefield but also maintain the UK’s position as a leader in military technology,” said Minister for Defence Procurement, James Cartlidge. “As we increase defense spending in the coming years, our Defence Drone Strategy will ensure we remain at the forefront of this evolution in warfare.”

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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