Copyright Breaking Defense
WASHINGTON — Germany’s navy could have a fielded laser weapon ready by 2029, following nearly a decade of work between contractors Rheinmetall and MBDA, the companies said today. The two firms said that they have completed a years worth of testing at sea, with a laser demonstrator now being handed over to the government for further testing at the Laser Competence Centre at the Technical Centre for Weapons and Ammunition in Meppen, something an announcement called a “major step” forward. “Successful tests conducted on the frigate SACHSEN proved the demonstrator’s tracking capability, effectiveness and precision under real operational conditions for the first time in Europe,” the announcement says. “These tests comprised over 100 live-firing trials and significantly more tracking trials. This technology has proven its high reaction speed and accuracy in combating drones, thereby significantly enhancing the effectiveness of drone defence. “Based on this, an operational laser weapon system could be available to the German Navy as of 2029, providing a powerful and cost-effective addition to conventional guided missiles,” the statement adds. The two companies have been working together to develop high-energy laser effectors since 2019, according to the announcement, with Rheinmetall responsible for the aiming system and integration onto the frigate and MBDA responsible for the tracking and control aspects. “The laser weapon system offers new possibilities for counter-operations against non-cooperative targets. With its ability to precisely and effectively neutralise drones and other small, fast-moving targets, it addresses one of the most pressing challenges of our time,” according to the statement. The companies’ laser weapon appears to be staying on schedule. In September 2024, the two companies signed a laser weapons cooperation agreement to jointly develop a maritime-based system and bring it to market “within the next five to six years.” And prior to that, in September 2023, Rheinmetall and MBDA set “prerequisites” for the development of a “first laser weapon,” including a commitment to make “internal preparations” for the new platform’s development phase. Rheinmetall Teams Up With Bulgaria Separately, Rheinmetall also announced today that it is establishing a joint venture with Bulgarian firm Vazovski Mashinostroitelni Zavodi (VMZ) to develop and manufacture artillery shells and energetic materials worth €1 billion ($1.17 billion). “We are grateful for the Bulgarian government’s confidence in our capabilities,” said Rheinmetall AG CEO Armin Papperger in a statement. “With the new production facility, we are further expanding our leading role as a manufacturer of artillery ammunition to continue supporting the defence capabilities of the European Union and NATO.” The production facility will be located in Sopot, Bulgaria. Production of the artillery shells is set to begin in 2027, while production of the energetic materials will begin in 2028. This deal marks “one of the most significant investments in ammunition production in recent years,” according to Rheinmetall.
