UK's "RapidDestroyer" Microwave Weapon Poised for Use Against Russian Drones

UK's "RapidDestroyer" Microwave Weapon Poised for Use Against Russian Drones in Ukraine

The UK Ministry of Defence has conducted successful tests of an advanced microwave weapon intended to counter drone swarms, a development that may soon see its application on the front lines in Ukraine, as reported by The Financial Times. This system, named RapidDestroyer, was created by a consortium led by the French defense company Thales. It generates strong radio frequencies capable of disabling or "frying" the electronics of multiple drones simultaneously, presenting a viable solution for contemporary warfare increasingly reliant on unmanned aerial vehicles. Notably, the Defence Ministry indicated that each shot from this new "cannon" costs a mere 13 US cents.

The article highlights, "The UK Ministry of Defence has successfully trialed a novel electronic weapon designed to combat drones, which could be deployed in current conflict zones, including Ukraine." During recent field tests, RapidDestroyer effectively neutralized two swarms, each consisting of eight drones. In total, UK defense officials confirmed that over 100 drones were tracked, targeted, and destroyed.