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UK Defense Minister Grant Shapps says Ukraine could use British DragonFire laser technology to repel drones and missiles earlier than the UK implements it.
This is according to BBC.
The UK army expects to begin using DragonFire laser weapon by 2027. Initially, the plan was to implement it in 2032, but thanks to the procurement reforms, the UK will install DragonFire laser on Royal Navy warships much quicker. The Defense Ministry carried out the first successful trial in January 2024.
WIth that being said, Shapps is willing to deliver such technology to Ukraine even quicker.
“Let’s say that it didn’t have to be 100% perfect in order for Ukrainians perhaps to get their hands on it,” Shapps stated, according to BBC.
He added that a 70% successful rate would be enough to share the technology and allow Ukraine to use it.
According to the Ministry of Defense, the laser weapon is precise enough to hit a £1 coin from a kilometre away. It could become a low-cost alternative to missiles when its comes to shooting down drones, saving on funds as a result.
“The product itself is genuinely years ahead,” the UK Defense Minister described the technology.
Read also: Effective use of drones not to compensate for lack of ammunition for Ukraine – ISW
