Rheinmetall and MBDA Forge Pioneering Laser Collaboration
Rheinmetall and MBDA Collaborate on Naval Laser Technology
In an exciting development for military technology, Rheinmetall and MBDA in Germany are set to form a joint venture focused on advancing naval laser systems, with plans to launch in the first quarter of 2026. This partnership builds on their successful collaboration since 2019, which includes the development and testing of a cutting-edge naval laser demonstrator.
The new venture aims to deliver operational laser weapon systems for the German Navy, enhancing their existing arsenal of guns and guided missiles. These advanced systems are specifically designed to counter drones and other agile targets, operating effectively at short and ultra-short ranges. With a proven track record from a previously developed demonstrator that has undergone successful operational testing for over a year, MBDA and Rheinmetall are well-equipped to meet these demands.
This laser weapon system has demonstrated impressive capabilities, tracking targets as small as a One-Euro coin under challenging environmental conditions. Its precision ensures that energy is efficiently concentrated on targets, significantly reducing the risk of collateral damage.
Both firms have leveraged their strengths to create a system that meets every customer requirement, reinforcing their commitment to national security and technological sovereignty.
“This initiative showcases the immense potential of collaborative industrial and technological efforts in Germany aimed at producing state-of-the-art solutions,” stated Roman Köhne, Head of Rheinmetall’s Weapons and Munitions division. “From the outset, both partners have concentrated on their unique strengths, enabling us to swiftly provide the Bundeswehr with a distinct product. Our primary goal has been to nationalize technology, thereby securing jobs in Germany and ensuring national sovereignty amid crisis scenarios.”
“Through the establishment of this GmbH, we are setting new benchmarks in the innovation and manufacturing of advanced military laser weapon systems, entirely designed and produced in Germany,” commented Thomas Gottschild, CEO of MBDA Germany. “This underscores our long-term collaboration and commitment to delivering a reliable maritime product swiftly, thereby significantly enhancing the Bundeswehr’s drone defense capabilities. By merging our complementary technological competencies, we can provide the German Navy with a laser weapon system that is both modern and operationally qualified.”
After a successful year-long trial period at sea, where over 100 firing and tracking tests were conducted against multiple targets—including ‘Blue Sky’ without terrain assistance—the laser demonstrator is currently at the Laser Competence Centre of the Military Technical Service for Weapons and Ammunition (WTD 91) in Meppen for additional evaluation. It is now back in operation and is being utilized for further ground-based drone defense testing.
