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UK unveils DragonFire laser, hits high-speed drones

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RESTRICTION: USERS MUST CREDIT “UK MINISTRY OF DEFENCE” HANDOUT, MUST NOT OBSCURE LOGO —EDITORIAL USE ONLY —

SHOTLIST:

UK (RELEASED ON NOV. 20, 2025) (UK MINISTRY OF DEFENCE - RESTRICTED)

1. DRAGONFIRE LASER (TWO SHOTS)

2. VARIOUS OF LASER BEING FIRED AT TARGET

3. SPLIT-SCREEN SHOWING DOWNED DRONE

4. LASER BEING FIRED AT TARGET

5. DRAGONFIRE LASER (TWO SHOTS)

6. VARIOUS OF LASER BEING FIRED AT TARGET

7. SPLIT-SCREEN SHOWING DOWNED DRONE

8. LASER BEING FIRED AT TARGET UK - RELEASED ON NOV. 20, 2025 - RESTRICTION: USERS MUST CREDIT “UK MINISTRY OF DEFENCE” HANDOUT, MUST NOT OBSCURE LOGO —EDITORIAL USE ONLY — The United Kingdom has successfully tested its new high-power DragonFire laser system on Thursday, Nov. 20, capable of taking down high-speed drones, marking a significant milestone in directed energy weapons development.

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) reported that DragonFire achieved a UK first during trials at the Hebrides range, shooting down drones flying at speeds up to 650 km/h — twice the top speed of a Formula 1 car. The system also demonstrated above-the-horizon targeting and engagement, showcasing advanced tracking and precision capabilities.

The laser system, costing just £10 per shot, offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional missile systems, which can run into hundreds of thousands of pounds per engagement. DragonFire is planned to be deployed on a Royal Navy Type 45 destroyer from 2027, five years ahead of schedule.

The programme, backed by a £316 million contract awarded to MBDA UK, is expected to support nearly 600 skilled jobs across the country, including 200 in Scotland, 185 in the South West of England, and 75 in the East of England. MBDA will collaborate with QinetiQ and Leonardo to continuously develop and enhance the system.

Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard MP said, “This high-power laser will place our Royal Navy at the forefront of NATO innovation, providing a cutting-edge capability to defend the UK and our allies. This programme demonstrates the value of British industry and creates hundreds of jobs while strengthening national security.”

Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander added, “DragonFire highlights Scottish expertise in defence technology and reinforces the UK’s global leadership in advanced weapon systems.”


- Writing by Berkay Gur

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