MBDA has awarded QinetiQ a £67 million contract to continue development of the laser source for the Royal Navy’s DragonFire directed-energy weapon. The award follows successful November 2025 trials in which DragonFire destroyed aerial targets beyond the horizon, a first for the UK. The system, featuring a low cost per shot and high precision, is slated for integration on Type 45 destroyers starting in 2027. Accelerated deployment reflects growing concern over drone and missile threats, with QinetiQ providing the laser and Leonardo supplying sensors and targeting systems.
