Key Takeaways:
- 1. The UK MoD has contracted MBDA UK to deliver two DragonFire laser-based directed energy weapon fits for the UK Royal Navy.
- 2. The DragonFire DEW capability aims to provide low-cost and sustainable alternatives to missiles, enhancing the UK’s defense capabilities.
- 3. The accelerated DragonFire procurement will deliver the capability five years ahead of the original planning timeline, with the first ship fit scheduled for 2027.
The UK MoD has awarded a GBP316 million contract to MBDA UK to provide two DragonFire DEW fits for the Royal Navy's Type 45 destroyers. This advanced laser system is set to enhance the UK's defense capabilities by offering a cost-effective alternative to missiles. By accelerating the DragonFire procurement, the UK aims to address evolving threats, particularly the drone threat, and ensure the adaptability of the system to fast-paced changes in warfare scenarios. The DragonFire system will be integrated into the ships' combat management systems to contribute to a layered air-defense capability.
Insight: The DragonFire DEW program represents a significant advancement in NATO's defense capabilities, with the UK leading the way in deploying high-power laser technology for maritime defense.
This article was curated by memoment.jp from the feed source: Naval News.
Read the original article here: https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2025/11/uk-contracts-for-dragonfire-naval-laser-capability-to-help-build-cost-effective-ship-based-defence/
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