MBDA and Rheinmetall have been tasked with developing a domestically developed laser weapon for the German Navy that is “operational by 2029.”
As per Rheinmetall, German procurement agency BAAINBw has signed a contract with the High-Energy Laser Naval Demonstrator Working Group (ARGE HEL) for the development of a high-energy laser weapon system for the German Navy.
The system has been designed to focus onto an area just a few centimetres across, delivering a high-energy-density beam which can engage targets quickly with relatively low power demands. It’s understood that the containerised system may also be adopted for port security applications.
ARGE HEL is made up of MBDA Deutschland and Rheinmetall Waffe Munition. The statement said the value of the deal signed “is in the mid three-digit million-euro range and covers the development of a complete system for maritime applications, including the entire operational chain from reconnaissance and target tracking to engagement.”
It added: “The joint venture is placing particular emphasis on German supply chains and domestic systems expertise in its development work, in order to secure national sovereignty.”
The two firms have been working together to develop a high-energy laser effector since 2019. MBDA’s technology covers target detection and tracking, the control console, and linking to the command-and-control system; Rheinmetall’s responsibilities include the aiming system, beam guidance, container, mechanical and electrical integration, and the high-energy laser source.
A demonstrator system was handed over to the German Navy in late 2025 after more than 100 live-firing trials and tracking drills on the air defence frigate Sachsen. More than 1,000 shots were successfully fired at airborne, maritime and land-based targets.
Head of Rheinmetall’s Weapon and Ammunition Division Roman Koehne commented: “The laser weapon system will provide significantly greater protection for our soldiers deployed on naval vessels, especially against drones. Series production will largely take place in Germany, creating new training and employment opportunities.”
And MD at MBDA Deutschland Thomas Gottschild added: “The laser weapon system developed by MBDA and Rheinmetall is a flagship technological project with a very high level of technological sophistication.
“It meets the specific requirements of the Bundeswehr and will significantly strengthen the German Navy’s defence capabilities against airborne, maritime and land-based targets.”
- You can read more details on the Rheinmetall website
