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The British military has tested a high-powered laser from a British Army vehicle for the first time, neutralising targets at over one kilometre.
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The Raytheon High-Energy Laser Weapon System (HELWS) capability was mounted to a Wolfhound armoured vehicle at the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory’s (Dstl) range in Porton Down, where it was tested at full power.
The capability was developed to defeat NATO class 1 drones, which cover micro, mini and small drones, while being integrated into large-scale air defence systems leveraging radar and command and control platforms.
The British Ministry of Defence has concluded that the capability can be deployed across a range of platforms.
The Raytheon HELWS variant employed during the test was developed by a British consortium, which also included Frazer-Nash, NP Aerospace, LumOptica, Blighter Surveillance Systems, and Cambridge Pixel.
Following trials are scheduled to be held later in the year to evaluate the system’s capabilities in real-world scenarios, the MOD confirmed.
The Raytheon HELWS is currently in service with the US military and boasts 40,000 testing hours and taking down over 400 targets.
Matt Cork, Dstl program lead, explained that the capability was a low-cost option at overcoming emerging aerial threats.
“The joint working between Dstl, DE&S and industry has enabled rapid evolution of this laser demonstrator. The successful testing of this high-powered laser weapon marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to enhance the future operational capabilities of the British Army,” he said.
“This technology offers a precise, powerful, and cost-effective means to defeat aerial threats, ensuring greater protection for our forces.”
Newly appointed Defence Secretary John Healey stressed the importance of continuing important programs such as the HELWS.
“As Defence Secretary, I want to take the politics out of national security so where there is important work begun under the previous government, we will take it forward in the interest of national security”, he said.
“That is why we are renewing important partnerships with industry and continuing to push technological boundaries. This will drive prosperity and create skilled jobs across the country.”
