Blighter Secures Partnership with Raytheon UK for Groundbreaking Laser Weapon Initiative

Blighter Surveillance Systems (www.blighter.com), the UK-based innovator and producer of electronic-scanning radars and surveillance technologies, has secured a contract to deliver its Multi-Mode A800 3D e-scan radars to Raytheon UK as part of a Laser Directed Energy Weapon (LDEW) System initiative with the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD).

This initiative aims to provide a demonstrative system that highlights the potential of the Raytheon Technologies-manufactured laser in neutralizing minor Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), utilizing two A800 radars for initial target identification and directing the laser’s targeting mechanisms. The laser weaponry will be mounted on a vehicle, with the ground-level A800 ensuring detection and designation in close proximity.

Blighter will contribute to the design stage of the system and create an operational concept while providing support during the trials, which are set to occur at a UK MoD testing facility. Blighter was selected for this contract due not only to the superior detection capabilities of its radars but also because the A800 has been crafted with integration as a priority, enabling it to function harmoniously with existing Command and Control (C2) frameworks.

Blighter’s A800 3D radar presents an advanced ground-based solution for threat identification, incorporating Multi-Mode surveillance features that are typically reserved for extensive radar configurations, while condensing it into a more compact and adaptable radar with a maximum detection range of 20km. The A800’s Multi-Mode functionality enables it to detect targets in the air, on land, and at sea, within the operational sphere of the LDEW, utilizing cutting-edge clutter filters to streamline the LDEW testing procedure.

The A800 multi-mode drone detection radar is optimally designed for UAV identification and is also capable of being installed on vehicles, towers, and masts, and will be delivered in an ITAR-free ready-to-use configuration.

Blighter’s CEO, James Long, stated: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Raytheon UK on this initiative, which will exhibit how our state-of-the-art A800 e-scanning radar can function in unison with next-generation technologies to gain a competitive advantage in the field. We are honored to lend our expertise in threat identification and integration for such a crucial advancement in Counter-UAV operations.”