UK Laser weapon to receive drone detection radar

Raytheon has tapped British technology firm Blighter to supply and integrate two multi-mode A800 3D e-scan radars into the UK’s Laser Directed Energy Weapon system.

The two radar systems would reportedly assist the laser weapon in neutralizing small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

They will be positioned on the ground to provide initial target detection and guide the direction of the laser’s targeting system.

“The A800 is designed with integration in mind, able to seamlessly operate in cohesion with existing command and control systems,” Blighter stated in a press release.

The company added that it will assist Raytheon with the design phase to ensure that it has best-in-class detection capabilities.

It will also help develop a concept of operation and provide other necessary support during trials.

The A800 Radar

Blighter’s A800 is a state-of-the-art drone detection radar that can be mounted on vehicles, towers, and masts.

It features a multi-mode surveillance capability usually present in large-scale radar systems.

The A800 is capable of detecting targets in the air, on land, and at sea with a maximum range of 20 kilometers (12.4 miles).

Blighter CEO James Long said that the new partnership will allow the cutting-edge platform to operate in synchronicity with next-generation laser weapons to provide an edge on the battlefield.

“We are proud to provide our expertise in threat detection and integration for such an important step in Counter-UAV operations,” he stated.