KABUL: Britain has deployed a new low-cost anti-drone missile system to the Middle East, equipping its Royal Air Force with a cheaper method to intercept unmanned aerial vehicles amid growing regional tensions.
According to a report published early Sunday by The National, the move is part of Britain’s broader efforts to strengthen the protection of Gulf countries against increasing drone threats.
report said the weapon system was rapidly brought into service by the British government and became operational less than two months after testing and is expected to be installed on the Royal Air Force’s Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft.
Officials said the missiles used in the new system cost around $20,000 each, offering a significantly cheaper alternative to traditional air-to-air missiles for intercepting drones.
The report added that the APKWS system uses laser-guidance technology to convert unguided 70mm Hydra rockets into precision weapons capable of targeting drones and other aerial threats.
British officials said the deployment marks a major shift in London’s response to the growing use of low-cost drones by hostile actors.
The anti-drone system has been deployed as media reports continue to speculate about the possibility of another imminent attack against Iran.
Britain deploys low-cost anti-drone missile system to Middle East
