“Royal Navy Ignites Innovation with Accelerated DragonFire Laser Initiative”
The UK DragonFire laser initiative – spearheaded by MBDA in collaboration with partners Leonardo UK and QinetiQ – is gaining momentum following a decision by the UK Ministry of Defence to deploy the weapon system on Royal Navy vessels.
This determination, revealed by Defence Secretary Grant Shapps, will enable the DragonFire laser weapon system to swiftly transition from a demonstration project to a functioning capability for the Royal Navy. Upcoming phases of this advancement will encompass additional live firings and the production and installation of weapon systems onto Royal Navy platforms.
The UK DragonFire initiative exemplifies the Government’s innovative Integrated Procurement Model, crafted to reform defence procurement and enhance the speed of military capability delivery.
The UK DragonFire initiative amalgamates the finest resources of UK industry. It utilizes MBDA’s years of expertise in weapon system manufacturing, Leonardo’s stature as a global leader in laser technology, electro-optics, and advanced targeting, as well as QinetiQ’s proficiency as the sole UK firm to successfully develop and safely operate high-energy laser systems and coherent beam-combining technology.
The recent announcement follows a series of exceedingly successful firing trials that showcased the efficacy of the DragonFire laser weapon system.
DragonFire has been established through a £100 million joint investment by industry and the UK Ministry of Defence, in collaboration with Dstl. The decision by the UK Ministry of Defence to advance the initiative guarantees that the involved companies can sustain, preserve, and enhance the essential high-tech skills, expertise, and employment that contribute to the UK economy. Future exports of DragonFire to the UK’s allies will further amplify these advantages.
Chris Allam, MBDA UK Managing Director, stated:
“MBDA is proud to spearhead this laser weapon initiative that will provide the UK Armed Forces with a transformative operational advantage to protect and defend themselves, as well as the UK’s strategic assets.”
Mark Stead, Leonardo UK SVP Radar and Advanced Targeting, mentioned:
“Leonardo appreciates the commitment to UK science and engineering represented by today’s announcement. The evolution of DragonFire is securing crucial skills and security capabilities domestically within the UK, ensuring they are accessible to support our Armed Forces and generate top-tier, readily exportable products.”
Steve Wadey, Group CEO of QinetiQ, remarked:
“Today’s announcement is a favorable endorsement of UK industry and government collaboration, aimed at supplying equipment to the front lines.
“Our team of scientists and engineers who have developed this leading-edge capability have played a pivotal role in developing technology that will deliver genuine operational advantages.”
