Rheinmetall and MBDA plan joint venture to develop and produce advanced laser weapon systems

The German Navy is expected to receive an operational laser weapon system designed to complement guns and guided missiles, with a focus on countering drones and other agile targets at short and very short ranges. The system builds on a jointly developed demonstrator that was integrated on a naval vessel and successfully tested under operational conditions for one year.

According to the companies, the demonstrator proved capable of precise, rapid target engagement with minimal collateral damage, even under adverse environmental conditions. Tests showed it could track a target the size of a one-euro coin at long range and focus laser energy accurately to avoid overshooting and ensure a high level of safety.

“This step demonstrates the potential of determined industrial and technological cooperation in Germany in order to produce cutting-edge technology”, said Roman Köhne, Head of Rheinmetall’s Weapons and Munitions division. “From the very beginning, both partners have been focussing on their strengths. Hence, this has enabled us to offer a unique product in a short period of time to the Bundeswehr. And from the beginning, nationalising the technology was the main object. One of the goals is to maintain, create and expand jobs in Germany in the long term, as well as ensuring national sovereignty and security of supply in times of crisis”.

“With this GmbH (private limited company under German law), we are setting new standards in the development and production of state-of-the-art military laser weapon systems, designed and made in Germany”, explained Thomas Gottschild, CEO of MBDA Germany. “This accentuates the benefits of many years of collaboration and highlights the dedication of both companies to bringing the tried-and-tested maritime product to the market swiftly, and providing the Bundeswehr with additional drone defence capabilities. By combining our complementary, innovative core competencies, we can offer the German Navy a laser weapon system that is technologically advanced, qualified and operational”.

Following more than 100 firing and tracking tests during the sea trial, including ‘Blue Sky’ engagements without using the landscape to capture the beam, the demonstrator was transferred to the Laser Competence Centre of the Military Technical Service for Weapons and Ammunition (WTD 91) in Meppen. It has since been returned to operation and is also being used for further land-based drone defence testing.