Jaya Pathak
Top 10 most expensive weapons in the world
Making military weapons needs a lot of knowledge and practice. Even creating a basic weapon like a spear isn’t as easy as it looks. You have to find a good stick for the handle and figure out how to attach the spearhead without it falling off. And think about how tough it is to shape a piece of stone into a sharp edge without messing it up!
Because of all these challenges, military weapons end up being quite expensive. The really advanced ones can cost millions or even billions of dollars. That’s why only a few military groups can afford to have them, and they only have a small number. In the future, these weapons might become even more expensive.
Here presenting the list of the top 10 most expensive weapons in the world:-
01. F-35 Lightning II – $1.5 Trillion:-
The Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II is an advanced American fighter jet designed for various missions. It comes in three versions: F-35A for regular take-off and landing, F-35B for short take off and vertical landing, and F-35C for carrier-based take-off and landing.
- Sensors and Avionics: The F-35 is equipped with high-tech sensors and avionics, like the AN/APG-81 radar and Electro-Optical Target System (EOTS) for enhanced situational awareness. It uses advanced electronic warfare systems and communication suites.
- Stealth and Signatures: Stealth is a crucial feature, achieved through careful shaping and radar-absorbent materials. The aircraft’s design minimizes radar cross-section, making it hard to detect. The F-35’s stealth focuses on high-frequency wavelengths, and it can also mount reflectors to disguise its radar cross-section.
- Cockpit: The cockpit is designed for optimal pilot awareness. It features a large touchscreen display for flight instruments and information. The F-35 uses a helmet-mounted display system (HMDS) instead of a traditional head-up display, providing critical information directly on the pilot’s visor.
- Armament: To maintain its stealth, the F-35 has internal weapons bays, each with two stations. It can carry various air-to-air and air-to-surface weapons, including guided bombs and missiles. The F-35A is armed with a rotary cannon, while the F-35B and F-35C can use a multi-mission pod for the same purpose.
02. Arleigh Burke DDG 51 Destroyer – $101.8 Billion:-
The USS Arleigh Burke (DDG-51) is a guided-missile destroyer, the first of its class, named after Admiral Arleigh A. Burke. It was commissioned on July 4, 1991, and designed with lessons from the Falklands campaign and Ticonderoga-class cruisers.
- Design and Features:
The ship’s design incorporates lessons from naval history, with features to lower radar cross-section for improved stealth. It uses a slightly downgraded version of the Aegis Combat System, enabling simultaneous missile launching, tracking, and evasion. The all-steel construction provides protection, and the Collective Protection System allows operation in contaminated environments. - Ship’s Crest:
The crest symbolizes Admiral Burke’s achievements, with elements representing his victories and service. Saint George represents Burke’s triumph in the Battle of Cape St. George, and the red sea dragon symbolizes Japanese naval power defeated under Burke’s command. - Motto:
The ship’s motto is “Fast and Feared,” reflecting its capabilities as the most powerful and survivable destroyer ever built.
03. Virginia Class Submarine – $83.7 Billion:-
The Virginia class submarines, also known as the SSN-774 class, are advanced nuclear-powered fast-attack submarines used by the United States Navy. Designed by General Dynamics Electric Boat and Huntington Ingalls Industries, these submarines incorporate cutting-edge technology for stealth, intelligence gathering, and weaponry.
- Purpose and Mission: Virginia-class submarines are versatile, designed for a wide range of missions including anti-submarine warfare and intelligence gathering in both open-ocean and littoral environments. They are replacing older Los Angeles-class submarines and are expected to remain in service until at least 2060, with later submarines potentially serving into the 2070s.
- Innovations: These submarines introduce several groundbreaking innovations. The Universal Modular Mast (UMM) system allows for various mast configurations, housing antennas and sensors. Photonic masts, a first for submarines, utilize high-resolution cameras and infrared sensors, enhancing reconnaissance capabilities. The implementation of pump-jet propulsors reduces cavitation and noise, enabling quieter operation.
- Improved Sonar Systems: Virginia-class submarines feature advanced sonar systems with open architecture for rapid hardware and software updates. They include the BQQ-10 bow-mounted sonar array, lightweight fiber optic sonar arrays, and high-frequency active sonars for enhanced coastal operations and anti-submarine warfare.
- Specifications: These submarines are approximately 377 feet long, with a displacement of 7,800 long tons. They are powered by a S9G nuclear reactor, capable of speeds greater than 25 knots. Each submarine accommodates a crew of 120 enlisted personnel and 14 officers.
- Block Construction: The Virginia class submarines are constructed in blocks, with each block featuring technological advancements and cost-saving measures. Blocks I, II, III, IV, and V progressively introduce improvements in construction techniques, propulsion, weaponry, and overall capabilities.
04. F-22 Raptor – $79.2 Billion:-
The Lockheed Martin/Boeing F-22 Raptor is an advanced American fighter jet designed for the United States Air Force (USAF). It’s fast, stealthy, and can operate in any weather condition. The F-22 is like a superhero in the sky, built to dominate in air combat but also capable of attacking targets on the ground and gathering intelligence.
- Development and Features: Developed through the USAF’s Advanced Tactical Fighter program, it is made by Lockheed Martin with contributions from Boeing. It first flew in 1997 and entered service in 2005. Originally planned to build 750, but only 187 were made due to high costs and the emergence of the F-35. It incorporates stealth technology, making it hard to detect by radar. It is equipped with advanced avionics and weapons systems. It has a complex life support system to protect the pilot.
- Stealth and Avionics: It carries weapons internally to reduce radar visibility. Designed to minimize radar, infrared, and acoustic signatures, it is equipped with advanced radar and electronic warfare systems. It is capable of rapid target detection and identification. It has a highly integrated avionics system for pilot awareness and reduced workload.
- Armament and Maintenance: Armed with air-to-air missiles and bombs. It can carry external fuel tanks and additional weapons on hardpoints. It requires regular maintenance due to its advanced technology. Its maintenance is conducted at specialized facilities to ensure operational readiness.
05. F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet – $65 Billion:-
The Boeing F/A-18E and F/A-18F Super Hornet are advanced fighter aircraft known for their versatility and capability. Here are the prominent features of these aircraft in simple terms:
- Multirole Capabilities: The Super Hornet is designed to perform various roles, including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground strikes, and electronic warfare, making it adaptable to different mission requirements.
- Enhanced Size and Performance: Compared to its predecessor, the F/A-18 Hornet, the Super Hornet is larger and heavier, offering increased internal fuel capacity, longer mission range, and improved endurance. It can carry a wide range of weapons, from air-to-air missiles to air-to-surface munitions.
- Aerial Refuelling Capability: The Super Hornet can be equipped with an aerial refueling system, allowing it to refuel other aircraft mid-flight. This feature extends the aircraft’s operational range and endurance, crucial for long-duration missions.
- Survivability and Stealth Features: While not a stealth aircraft like the F-22, the Super Hornet incorporates measures to reduce its radar signature, making it less detectable by enemy radar systems. These include changes to its aerodynamics and the use of radar-absorbing materials.
- Advanced Avionics and Electronics: The Super Hornet is equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and electronics systems, including radar, targeting pods, communication equipment, and defensive countermeasures. These systems enhance situational awareness, targeting accuracy, and overall mission effectiveness.
- Digital Fly-by-Wire System: The aircraft features a digital fly-by-wire flight control system, which provides precise control and stability, especially during high-stress maneuvers and combat situations.
06. V-22 Osprey – $57.8 Billion:-
The Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey is a groundbreaking multi-mission military aircraft known for its unique tiltrotor design, combining the capabilities of a helicopter with those of a turboprop aircraft. Here are the prominent features of the V-22 Osprey:
- Tiltrotor Design: The V-22 Osprey is the world’s first production tiltrotor aircraft, featuring a three-bladed proprotor, turboshaft engine, and transmission nacelle mounted on each wingtip. This design allows for both vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) and short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities.
- Versatility: Designed to address military needs not well-suited for conventional helicopters or fixed-wing aircraft, the V-22 Osprey serves various roles, including troop transport, medevac, and special operations. Its ability to combine helicopter-like hovering with the speed and range of a fixed-wing aircraft makes it adaptable to a range of mission requirements.
- Operational History: The V-22 Osprey first flew in 1989, and after years of development, it entered service with the United States Marine Corps (USMC) in 2007, replacing the Boeing Vertol CH-46 Sea Knights. The U.S. Air Force (USAF) also deployed its version, the CV-22B, in 2009. The aircraft has seen active duty in Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, and Kuwait.
- Composite Materials: Approximately 43% of the V-22’s airframe is made up of composite materials, contributing to its durability and efficiency. The proprotor blades also utilize composites, enhancing the overall performance of the aircraft.
- Folding Rotors: The V-22’s rotors can fold within 90 seconds, and its wings rotate to align with the fuselage for efficient storage. This feature, although impacting the optimal size for vertical takeoff, allows for longer-range fixed-wing flights, reducing wear and tear during helicopter missions.
- Propulsion: Powered by two Rolls-Royce AE 1107C engines, the V-22’s unique design allows one engine to power both proprotors in the event of an engine failure. The aircraft is not able of hovering on one engine.
- Avionics: Equipped with a glass cockpit featuring multiple displays, the V-22 Osprey’s avionics include a central display unit, digimaps, infrared sensors, and navigation systems. It incorporates triple-redundant fly-by-wire flight control systems and computerized damage control for enhanced safety.
- Armament: The V-22 can be armed with machine guns mounted on the rear loading ramp, and a remotely operated gun turret system, known as the Interim Defense Weapon System (IDWS), has been developed for self-defense. The aircraft’s speed allows it to conventional support helicopters.
07. Trident II Missile – $53.2 Billion:-
The Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey is a revolutionary military aircraft renowned for its unique combination of helicopter-like vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capabilities and the high-speed cruise performance of a turboprop airplane. Here are its prominent features:
- Tiltrotor Design: The V-22 Osprey is the world’s first production tiltrotor aircraft, featuring rotors that can tilt from vertical to horizontal positions. This design allows it to operate like a helicopter for takeoff and landing and as a fixed-wing aircraft for horizontal flight.
- Versatility: The aircraft is designed for multi-mission capabilities, serving roles such as troop transport, cargo transport, aerial refueling, search and rescue, and special operations support. Its ability to adapt to various mission requirements makes it a valuable asset for military operations.
- Operational History: Developed in response to the failure of Operation Eagle Claw in 1980, the V-22 Osprey underwent extensive testing and development before entering service. The United States Marine Corps (USMC) and the United States Air Force (USAF) began fielding their respective versions of the Osprey in the early 2000s.
- Composite Materials: The V-22 utilizes composite materials extensively in its airframe construction, contributing to its lightweight yet durable structure. Approximately 43% of the airframe is composed of composites, including the proprotor blades.
- Propulsion: Powered by two Rolls-Royce AE 1107C engines, the V-22 Osprey features a unique drive system that allows one engine to power both proprotors in case of an engine failure. The aircraft’s engines have undergone upgrades to increase power and reliability, enhancing performance in various operational conditions.
- Avionics and Cockpit: Equipped with a glass cockpit and advanced avionics systems, the V-22 provides pilots with comprehensive flight information and navigation capabilities. The aircraft features triple-redundant fly-by-wire flight control systems and automated controls for transitioning between helicopter and airplane modes.
- Armament: The V-22 Osprey can be armed with various weapon systems, including machine guns and rocket pods, for self-defence and offensive operations. The aircraft’s armament options have been continuously evaluated and upgraded to meet evolving mission requirements.
- Refuelling Capability: Boeing has developed a roll-on/roll-off aerial refuelling kit for the V-22 Osprey, allowing it to refuel other aircraft mid-flight. This capability enhances the aircraft’s operational flexibility and extends its mission endurance.
08. Joint Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle – $41.6 Billion:-
The Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, developed under the U.S. Department of Defense MRAP program, are designed to withstand improvised explosive device (IED) attacks and ambushes. Initiated in 2007 due to increased IED threats in Iraq, over 12,000 MRAP vehicles were deployed until 2012 in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The MRAP program includes various vehicle categories based on weight and size:
- Category I (MRAP-MRUV): Designed for urbPan operations, these smaller MRAPs include vehicles like BAE Caiman 4×4, BAE OMC RG-31, Force Protection Cougar H 4×4, International MaxxPro, and Textron M1117 Guardian.
- Category II (MRAP-JERRV): The Joint Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Rapid Response Vehicle (JERRV) serves convoy lead, troop transport, ambulance, and explosive ordnance disposal. Vehicles in this category include Force Protection Cougar HE 6×6, BAE RG-33L 6×6, GDLS RG-31E, International MaxxPro XL, and BAE Caiman 6×6.
- Category III: Force Protection Buffalo MRV, specialized for mine and IED clearing, features six seats.
Production of the initial MRAPs concluded in 2012, followed by the introduction of Oshkosh M-ATV and Oshkosh L-ATV as a lighter mine-resistant vehicle. The MRAP program addressed critical threats, offering enhanced protection and adaptability in challenging combat environments.
09. P-8A Poseidon – $33 Billion:-
The Boeing P-8 Poseidon, an American maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft, is a military adaptation of the Boeing 737-800. Developed for the United States Navy (USN), it operates in anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASUW), and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) places.
- Design: The P-8 retains the 737’s external appearance but incorporates military modifications for lower altitude operation and aggressive maneuvering. Structural enhancements by Spirit AeroSystems, stronger wings from the 737-900, and raked wingtips facilitate its military role.
- Power and Electronics: Equipped with CFM International CFM56 engines featuring 180 kVA electric generators, the P-8 powers advanced onboard electronics. Changes in the cockpit allow increased bank angle and a more responsive autothrottle.
- Crew Setup: The aircraft accommodates a crew of two naval flight officers and three enlisted Aviation Warfare Operators/naval aircrewman. Operator stations lack windows, except for two large observer’s windows. A short bomb bay for torpedoes and other stores is located behind the wing.
- Sensors: The P-8 features the Raytheon APY-10 multi-mission surface search radar. While lacking a magnetic anomaly detector in most versions, the P-8I variant is equipped with one. The Advanced Airborne Sensor radar replaced the Littoral Surveillance Radar System in the P-8A Increment 2 upgrade.
- Refuelling: Unlike the typical Navy probe and drogue method, the P-8 uses a flying boom receptacle for in-flight refuelling. It relies on US Air Force aircraft for this purpose.
- Collaboration: The P-8 operates alongside the MQ-4C Triton unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for continuous surveillance. It is also compatible with sub-hunting UAVs equipped with magnetic anomaly detectors.
10 most expensive guns in the world
- Singing Bird Pistols – $5.8 million
- Pat Garrett’s Colt Single Action Army Used to Kill Billy the Kid – $6.03 million
- George Washington’s Saddle Pistols – $1.98 million
- Simon Bolivar’s Flintlock Pistols – $1.76 million
- Millikin Colt Dragoon Revolver – $1.66 million
- Million Euro Rifle – $1.18 million
- Gold-Inlaid Colt Model 1849 Pocket Revolver – $1.1 million
- Colt Paterson Revolver – $977,000
- Texas Ranger Sam Wilson’s Colt Walker – $920,000
- Teddy Roosevelt’s Double-barreled Shotgun – $862,500
