You would have seen laser weapons in Star Wars, and perhaps, you would be interested in having one too. This Star Wars fantasy is becoming a reality for UK Military that is building a laser weapon for use in wars.
The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has partnered with Dragonfire, a UK based team to create the laser-directed energy weapon (LDEW). A $37 million contract was awarded for creating a prototype by 2019. The development of laser is intended for use by all armed forces. Tests will be conducted to see if a laser can be used to destroy drones, missiles, and other targets. Hopefully, the laser will be operational by the army and navy by 2025 and by airforce by 2035.
A demonstration of the laser is expected to happen by 2019 on land and in marine environments. Dave Armstrong, UK Managing Director of MBDA, which owns Dragonfire, said: “UK Dragonfire will put the UK at the forefront of high energy laser systems, capitalizing on the experience of joint MoD/Industry working in the complex weapons environment.”
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