Rheinmetall and MBDA will develop a laser weapon system for the German Navy
The Bundeswehr’s procurement agency has signed a contract with Rheinmetall and MBDA Deutschland to develop a high-energy laser weapon system for the German Navy.
Specifically, the Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology, and Operations of the Bundeswehr signed a contract with the HEL working group, which consists of MBDA Deutschland GmbH and Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH.
According to plans, the new laser system is expected to be operational by 2029. The contract value is estimated to be in the mid-three-digit million euro range.
The project involves the development of a comprehensive system for naval applications that will provide a full target engagement cycle—from detection and tracking to destruction. Rheinmetall and MBDA Deutschland will establish a joint venture to implement the program.
The company notes that the new system is intended to enhance the protection of German Navy ships, particularly against drone attacks. In addition, the containerized laser system is planned to be used for port security and other defense missions.
Rheinmetall added that the development will be based on a demonstration model that underwent testing in maritime conditions over the course of a year. During testing, the system fired more than 1,000 successful shots at air, sea, and ground targets.
Rheinmetall announced this on July 9.
As a reminder, Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall will produce ATACMS missiles in Europe.
Ukraine has signed a new contract with the German defense company Rheinmetall for the supply of artillery shells. The deal is valued at tens of millions of euros, and the first deliveries are expected in 2027.
