DragonFire’s specifications remain secret, but the UK Ministry of Defense said the system, which functions as a direct-guided weapon, can hit any visible target.

What is known about British laser weapons

Laser characterized high accuracy and low long-term operating costsIt uses British technology to produce powerful laser radiation at unknown distances.

• The precision required for its operation is equivalent to shooting a coin from a distance of one kilometer.
• Laser-guided weapons use an intense beam of light to cause structural destruction or other impact effects on target warheads.

Dragon Fire / Photo: UK Defense Magazine

The economic advantage offered by DragonFire is remarkable: 10 seconds of ignition reportedly costs the same as running a conventional heater for an hour. The laser system is therefore a potentially long-term, cost-effective alternative for certain missions currently performed by missiles. The operating costs of a laser are generally less than £10 per shot.

The DragonFire system has demonstrated its ability to track moving air and sea targets with exceptional long-range accuracy, cementing its position as a powerful technological advance in defense capabilities.

Successful engagement of air targets at appropriate ranges positions DragonFire as a key contender for integration into future air defense capabilities for both the Army and Royal Navy. Speaking on this occasion, Grant Shapp, Minister of Defense of Great Britain, emphasized the potentially revolutionary impact of such modern weapons on the battlefield, reducing dependence on expensive ammunition and minimizing the risk of secondary losses.