The United Kingdom plans to equip its fighter jets with a new low-cost missile system designed to counter drones more cheaply and efficiently. During the 2024 conflict between Israel and Iran, British forces reportedly used missiles costing about £200,000 each to destroy relatively inexpensive drones, highlighting the need for a more cost-effective solution.

The new system converts unguided rockets into laser-guided precision weapons, allowing aircraft to shoot down drones at a fraction of the previous cost. The price is expected to be closer to that of the Iranian-made Shahed 136 drone, which is estimated to cost between $20,000 and $50,000. Officials said the system could be deployed within months following successful testing with defence companies.

Drone threats have increased across the region since the outbreak of war, with Iran launching drones and ballistic missiles at targets including Israel and several Gulf states. British officials say the new capability will help the Royal Air Force counter large numbers of drones more sustainably, particularly after recent incidents in Cyprus where drones were intercepted or caused minor damage.