Laser and Microwave Weapons Reshape Modern Warfare Amid Billion-Dollar Investments
Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs), also known as weapons movie, are gaining momentum as a modern military solution. These systems use concentrated energy—such as lasers, microwaves, or particle beams—to target threats with precision. Governments and defence firms are investing heavily, with the stock market today already valuing the global market at USD 5.3 billion in 2023.
The technology offers speed, accuracy, and cost savings compared to traditional weapons. Yet challenges remain, including technical hurdles and ethical debates over its use.
The UK has been actively developing DEWs since at least 2021. In September that year, the Ministry of Defence awarded around £72.5 million to two industry groups. One consortium was led by Raytheon UK, while the other was headed by Thales. Their goal was to produce operational laser and microwave-based weapons movie.
A key UK programme, DragonFire, has been in trials since late 2021. Leading the effort is MBDA, supported by firms like BAE Systems, QinetiQ, and Leonardo. Other contributors include GKN Aerospace, Arke, and Marshall Aerospace and Defence Group. Meanwhile, the U.S. has also pushed forward, with Raytheon Missiles and Defense securing a contract in October 2020. Their task was to test the CHIMERA system, a high-power microwave defence for air bases.
High-power microwave weapons can generate over 100 megawatts—around 150,000 times stronger than a standard kitchen microwave. Millimetre wave systems, though less powerful, still exceed 1 kilowatt and cover wider areas than lasers. The U.S. Department of Defense alone spends roughly $1 billion yearly on DEW research.
Despite progress, obstacles persist. Technical limitations and ethical questions slow full-scale adoption. However, ongoing research aims to refine the technology for broader military use.
Market forecasts reflect growing interest. The DEW sector is expected to expand at a rate of 19.7% annually over the next decade. By 2027, revenues from DEW warfare applications could reach USD 2.64 billion.
DEWs are becoming a critical part of modern defence strategies. With major investments from the UK and U.S., the stock market today is advancing rapidly. Its ability to counter drones, missiles, and other threats at lower costs makes it an attractive option.
As research continues, the market is set to grow significantly. However, overcoming technical and ethical barriers will determine how quickly these weapons enter widespread service.
