U.K. Royal Navy Orders Laser Weapons from QinetiQ

QinetiQ has won a £67 million contract to ensure the delivery of the U.K.’s first laser directed energy weapons to the Royal Navy from 2027.

Following further trials of the U.K.’s DragonFire laser weapon in November last year, which took place at the QinetiQ-operated MOD Hebrides range, Defence Minister Luke Pollard announced a £316 million contract, awarded to DragonFire industry partnership prime MBDA, for the production and delivery of the first DragonFire units. These will be integrated on to Royal Navy ships from 2027 as an extension of existing air defence capabilities.

As a DragonFire industry partner, QinetiQ was awarded £67 million by MBDA, enabling QinetiQ to continue its unique role in developing and producing the vital laser source of the DragonFire system. The contract also leverages QinetiQ’s expertise in ensuring the safe testing of this critical military capability of the future.