British Army or Ministry of Defence official publications

British Army Tests Thales UK-Led RFDEW in West Wales, Neutralizing Drone Swarms for 10 Pence per Shot

Dec 23, 2024, 12:43 PM

The British Army has successfully tested a new radio frequency directed energy weapon (RFDEW) designed to neutralize swarms of drones. The RFDEW, developed under Project Ealing by a Thales UK-led consortium in collaboration with QinetiQ, Teledyne e2v, and Horiba Mira, uses high-frequency radio waves to disrupt or damage critical electronic components of drones. The system was trialed by the Royal Artillery Trials and Development Unit and 7 Air Defence Group in West Wales. It can engage targets up to 1 kilometer away with near-instantaneous effect at an estimated cost of 10 pence per shot, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional missile-based air defense systems. The weapon's high level of automation allows it to be operated by a single person and can be mounted on military vehicles like the MAN SV for mobility. The trials, supporting over 135 highly skilled jobs in the UK, mark a significant advancement in the UK's efforts to enhance the operational capabilities of its Armed Forces against emerging aerial threats. Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Maria Eagle MP, highlighted the successful firing as a step forward for a potentially game-changing sovereign weapon for the UK.