What Happened
Radio Frequency Weapon Shows Promise Against Drone Swarms
Thales UK has successfully trialed its RapidDestroyer radio frequency directed energy weapon, defeating 80 drones in individual engagement scenarios. The system, designed to counter drone swarms, uses high-intensity radio frequency waves to disrupt or damage electronic components inside a drone. The trials, which took place in April 2026, demonstrated consistent, near-immediate defeats, and the system is expected to be fielded by the British Armed Forces within the next few years. This development was first reported by AeroTime.