UK deploys low-cost anti-drone weapon in Middle East operations

LONDON, May 17: The United Kingdom has deployed a new low-cost anti-drone weapon system in the Middle East to strengthen protection for British citizens, allies, and regional partners against rising aerial threats, the Ministry of Defence announced.

The new Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) has been integrated into Royal Air Force Typhoon fighter jets, enabling them to destroy drone targets with greater precision and at significantly lower cost compared to conventional air-to-air missiles.

According to the ministry, the system is now operational in the region, with RAF Typhoon jets from 9 Squadron already flying missions as part of ongoing efforts to counter threats and safeguard British interests and partner nations.

British officials said the APKWS offers a more cost-effective response to the growing use of drones in modern conflicts, particularly in the Middle East where aerial attacks by unmanned systems have increasingly challenged military operations and regional security.