Testing of modular and interconnected solutions for maritime operations
Rheinmetall AG continues to advance its capabilities by testing modular and interconnected solutions tailored for maritime operations. As an eminent international systems provider for security, the company is actively engaged in the multinational REPMUS26 (Robotic Experimentation and Prototyping with Maritime Unmanned Systems) proving exercise taking place in Portugal from 31 August to 25 September 2026. Since 2024, the DAX-listed group has been lending its expertise as a systems integrator for sophisticated, multidimensional maritime systems to this extensive trial.
The exercise, held on the Troia Peninsula and in the adjacent waters of Portugal, unites navies, research institutions, and industry stakeholders with the goal of further refining unmanned systems within a realistic, multidimensional operational framework.
Interoperability as Key to Strategic Security
The coordinated deployment of unmanned platforms, spanning from seabed to space, is vital for the protection of critical port infrastructure, strategically important port facilities, and coastal waters. At REPMUS26, Rheinmetall is showcasing that mission success hinges not only on the performance of individual platforms but also on their seamless integration. By consolidating all sensor data into a comprehensive operational picture, the conditions for early situational awareness and well-defined, precise actions are established.
An Overview of the Technological Trial Setup
Mobile Mission Control
A key component of this year’s contribution is the establishment of a containerized, relocatable demonstration setup. This will function as a mobile command and control center for the German Navy throughout the four-week exercise, enhancing operational port security.
Open Integration Architecture
The Rheinmetall Battlesuite, grounded in the Tactical Core Middleware from blackned GmbH, forms the technological backbone of this initiative. This architecture fosters an open environment for the flexible and application-specific integration of innovative sensors, effectors, and mission modules from various technology partners.
Graded Underwater Sensor System
A notable emphasis in 2026 is placed on experiments involving unmanned underwater sensors supplied by prestigious industry partners. The objective is to produce a persistent operational picture that allows operators to manage multiple unmanned systems of different types and manufacturers through a unified user interface.
“REPMUS offers us an excellent opportunity to test our prototype development in realistic scenarios,” states Gregor Mannherz, Head of the Rheinmetall Delegation. “By collaborating with operational experts from our naval customers and government agencies, we can design our products and solutions more efficiently, thus accelerating development in a targeted manner.”
Through validating collaborative operational concepts and enhancing interoperability, Rheinmetall is making a pivotal contribution to bolstering the defense capabilities of NATO partners and safeguarding global maritime supply routes.
