Military technology in the United Kingdom is entering the realms of science fiction, with plans for surveillance drones modelled on dragonflies and a "Quantum Gravimeter" to X-ray enemy tunnels.
The "dragonfly drone" is the star of the new initiative, announced by the UK Defence Secretary. Currently in development, it fits in the palm of your hand and uses flapping wings to move with great agility.
The micro-engineering enables the tiny drone to enter through small gaps like windows and gather information without being noticed. It also employs "bioprincipic design techniques" to avoid obstacles at high speed.
The Quantum Gravimeter - a portable gravity sensing system - will allow British military to spot enemy tunnels and underground structures in a matter of minutes.
Also the Defence ministry says it is developing laser weapons that may soon be able to "target and defeat aerial threats".
"This new approach will help to keep Britain safe while supporting our economy, with our brightest brains keeping us ahead of our adversaries," Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said.
As part of the initiative, the Defence Secretary is inviting the "best and brightest" individuals and companies to pitch their James Bond-inspired ideas to a dragon's den-style panel.
The £800 million funded plan will involve a fast-track process for "truly novel ideas" to match the pace of smaller firms, the UK government says.
Newshub.
