UK Army Successfully Tests New Laser Weapon System Today
The British Army today tested a high-energy laser weapon from an armoured personnel carrier for the first time by shooting down a drone. This is stated in a press release from the British government.
The new weapon was tested at a training ground in Wales, where soldiers from the 16th Regiment of the Royal Artillery were able to track and shoot down airborne targets using a powerful infrared laser. The weapon was integrated into a Wolfhound armoured personnel carrier during the exercise.
The laser directs a beam of infrared light at the target using the latest sensors and tracking systems that support real-time guidance and accuracy. Laser weapons are virtually unlimited in terms of ammunition, so they can be a cost-effective alternative to some modern weapons.
‘The successful test of this laser weapon system is a significant step forward in the development of our possible future defence capabilities and demonstrates British engineering excellence,’ said Maria Eagle, the UK Minister for Defence and Security Procurement.
She added that this latest technology demonstrates the UK's commitment to remaining a leader in military innovation.
Earlier, in October, the UK Ministry of Defence, together with the Royal Air Force, tested a laser system designed to protect aircraft.