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.
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.
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.