New radio frequency directed energy weapon developed by British Army to destroy drones

British soldiers have used a home-grown directed-energy weapon to destroy swarms of drones in a landmark military trial, marking the UK’s largest counter-drone exercise to date.

The trial, held at a range in west Wales, tested a radio frequency directed-energy weapon (RF DEW) developed by Thales UK.

The system successfully tracked and neutralised over 100 drones across multiple engagements by emitting high-frequency radio waves that disrupted the drones’ internal electronics.

In one test, British troops brought down two separate swarms in a single engagement.

The RF DEW system is designed to defeat aerial threats at up to 1km and costs just 10 pence per shot — a fraction of traditional missile-based systems.

Sgt Mayers from 106 Regiment Royal Artillery, who operated the weapon, described it as “quick to learn and easy to use,” and said further improvements in range and power could make it a valuable tool in layered air defence.

The Ministry of Defence has invested over £40 million in RF DEW development as part of its Plan for Change, pledging to spend at least 10% of its procurement budget on novel technologies from 2025-26.

“RF DEW is a pioneering concept and a cost-effective solution against a growing threat,” said Defence Procurement Minister Maria Eagle.

“It showcases the best of British innovation and strengthens our national security.”

Drone swarms have become a key challenge in modern warfare, with Ukraine reporting over 18,000 drone attacks in 2023.

UK officials say RF DEW systems could protect critical infrastructure, airports, and defence sites from similar threats.

Thales executive Nigel MacVean said the company would continue to develop the technology in partnership with the UK government to meet emerging defence challenges.