The UK has successfully conducted live-fire trials of its new Radio Frequency Directed Energy Weapon (RFDEW), capable of disabling drones at a remarkably low cost of approximately 10 pence ($0.13) per shot.

This innovative weapon utilizes high-frequency radio waves to detect, track, and disable critical electronic components in drones, effectively immobilizing them or causing them to crash.

The trials were carried out by the Army's Royal Artillery Trials and Development Unit alongside the 7 Air Defence Group in West Wales, marking a significant milestone for the British Armed Forces in targeting Uncrewed Aerial Systems.

Nigel MacVean, Managing Director of Thales IAS, expressed enthusiasm for the successful trials, highlighting the company's commitment to advancing this cutting-edge technology.

Defence Minister Maria Eagle described the RFDEW as a 'potentially game-changing' addition to the UK's defense capabilities, particularly in light of recent conflicts.

The trials program will continue to refine the RFDEW's capabilities and develop mission-optimized requirements for future operational use.

The RFDEW is highly automated, requiring only one operator, which contributes to its cost-effectiveness in terms of human labor.

In a light-hearted note, the Ministry of Defence remarked that the cost to neutralize a drone swarm is less than that of a traditional British mince pie, highlighting the economic advantages of this new technology.

The development of the RFDEW was first announced in May 2024 and is the result of collaboration between the UK Ministry of Defence’s Defence Equipment & Support and the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl).

The RFDEW's development responds to the increasing use of drones in modern warfare, particularly underscored by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Designed for mobility, the RFDEW can be operated by a single person and is adaptable for mounting on military vehicles, enhancing its deployment flexibility.

The US is also pursuing similar technology with the Tactical High-power Operational Responder (THOR), which has been tested successfully against drone swarms.