Contract to develop a laser weapon system for the German Navy
On July 9, 2026, the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) entered into a contract with the High-Energy Laser Naval Demonstrator Working Group (ARGE HEL) for the creation of a high-energy laser weapon system dedicated to the German Navy. This collaborative effort includes MBDA Deutschland and Rheinmetall Waffe Munition, which are currently establishing a joint venture to facilitate this development.
The new laser weapon system is projected to be operational by 2029, with the contract value falling within the mid three-digit million-euro range. It encompasses the development of a comprehensive system for maritime applications, including all stages of the operational chain—from reconnaissance and target tracking to engagement.
In a strategic move, the joint venture is prioritizing the integration of German supply chains and domestic systems expertise to foster national autonomy in this critical technology.
Roman Koehne, Head of Rheinmetall’s Weapon and Ammunition Division, remarked, “This is a striking demonstration of the level of technological maturity that can be achieved when the two leading system houses, Rheinmetall and MBDA, combine their complementary capabilities to create a complete system. 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. We are delighted by the confidence shown in us through this contract.”
Thomas Gottschild, Managing Director of MBDA Deutschland GmbH and Executive Vice President Strategy & Future Growth at MBDA, 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 defense capabilities against airborne, maritime, and land-based targets. The containerized laser effector will also be cost-efficient for port security and other applications.”
The system is meticulously tailored to the Bundeswehr’s specific requirements. In March 2026, the naval laser demonstrator showcased its capabilities to high-ranking German delegations at the Bundeswehr Technical Centre for Weapons and Ammunition (WTD 91) in Meppen. The demonstrator has undertaken 28,000 nautical miles across the North Sea, Baltic Sea, and Mediterranean aboard the frigate SACHSEN, successfully proving its performance even in challenging weather conditions.
Throughout over a year of testing and operational use at WTD91, the system has accounted for more than 1,000 successful engagements of airborne, maritime, and land-based targets.
The refined beam quality and tracking capability of the developed system enable the laser power to be focused with exceptional precision, even on moving targets. This advanced capability allows the system to concentrate its power on an area measuring just a few centimeters. With its high energy density, the system can engage targets more quickly, accurately, and effectively, while utilizing a reduced amount of laser power.
