A British supplier, Raytheon UK, plans to test a high-energy laser weapon system in the near term at a Livingston, Scotland facility. The report attributes the development to UK Defence Magazine, noting a laser output of 15 kilowatts. This technology was tailored to Wolfhound armored vehicles, enhancing their ability to counter airborne threats as part of a modernization effort. The publication emphasizes the system’s primary focus on disabling drones.
A Raytheon UK spokesperson described the arrival of this advanced directed-energy capability as a milestone in the collaboration with the Ministry of Defence to defeat a range of aerial and ground-based threats. The company’s weapons general manager, Julie Finlayson-Odell, highlighted the significance of integrating directed-energy solutions with existing defense programs. Following testing and optimization, the laser system is expected to be delivered to the British armed forces for field use. [Source: UK Defence Magazine]
Separately, on September 10, American defense contractor General Atomics announced the start of flight tests for its LongShot drone, a platform designed to carry air-to-air missiles. The company indicated that the initial test flights would focus on validating key UAV control systems, with further evaluations planned to occur by December 2023. [Source: General Atomics press release]
In related coverage from Russia, discussions addressed the conditions under which the Peresvet laser complex might be deployed, outlining scenarios and strategic considerations for its use. [Source: Russian defense updates]