DESCRIPCIÓN DEL SISTEMA
Directed energy weapon (DEW) laser system developed under the UK Ministry of Defence's Laser Directed Energy Weapon programme. Produces a 50 kW-class high-energy laser beam capable of engaging UAVs, mortar rounds, small boats, and other asymmetric threats at the speed of light with a cost per shot of approximately GBP 10. Uses beam-combining technology from multiple emitter modules to create a single high-power beam with exceptional accuracy. Successfully demonstrated engaging aerial targets in trials. Planned for integration on Royal Navy Type 23 and Type 26 frigates, as well as potential land-based applications.
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VER TAMAÑO COMPLETO
Dragonfire - MBDA
VENTAJAS
- Near-zero cost per shot (~$13 per engagement vs. millions for missiles)
- Deep magazine limited only by power supply
- Speed-of-light engagement eliminates lead calculation
- Ideal for countering low-cost drone swarms
DESVENTAJAS
- Atmospheric conditions (rain, fog, dust) degrade beam effectiveness
- Current 50 kW insufficient against hardened or fast-moving targets
- Power generation and thermal management challenges on smaller platforms
- Still in demonstration phase; years from operational deployment
ESPECIFICACIONES TÉCNICAS
ROLECIWS, C-UAS, Anti-Small Boat
TYPEHigh-Energy Laser Weapon System
POWER50 KW Class
TRIALS2024 Successful Trials
PLATFORMSShips, Ground Vehicles (Planned)
MANUFACTURERMBDA UK Consortium
COST PER SHOT~$13
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