Rheinmetall Celebrates Milestone: 300th MASS System Shields Our Blue, Green, and Brown Water Navies

Rheinmetall is presently commemorating a remarkable milestone in the realm of maritime defense systems. The specialists from Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH’s Fronau location have delivered the 300th MASS Multi Ammunition Softkill System. Another noteworthy aspect: the anniversary client, the Finnish Navy, was also the inaugural customer of the system. Introduced to the market in 2002, MASS is now operational with no fewer than 14 nations employing it.

The Multi Ammunition Softkill System (MASS) from Rheinmetall is designed for utilization by blue, green, and brown water navies. It safeguards vessels against a diverse array of threats—across expansive oceans, in coastal regions, or along rivers. The fully automated MASS decoy mechanism presents an unparalleled level of defense against contemporary, sensor-guided missiles, covering all significant wavelengths of the electromagnetic spectrum. MASS is applicable on any class of vessel, and it can be incorporated into an existing combat management system (CMS) or function independently. Typically, MASS comprises between one and six adjustable launchers, each capable of discharging 32 Omni Trap special effect charges. Every launcher is equipped with a control unit and a data interface.

Rheinmetall has consistently enhanced its MASS family of ship defense systems. Two recent variants of this proven decoy launcher system are the MASS_OCR, equipped with off-board corner reflectors, and the new autonomous version, MASS_ISS, featuring an Integrated Sensor Suite for assets that do not possess independent detection capabilities for laser and radar threats.

The MASS_OCR variant incorporates unique deception and diversion functionalities. Each launcher is fitted with two off-board corner rockets that generate ship-similar radar signatures. With a programming range of 35 to 850 meters, the effects created can endure for over 60 seconds.

Specifically designed for vessels lacking onboard reconnaissance systems, Rheinmetall’s MASS_ISS with Integrated Sensor Suite operates as an independent unit with an embedded sensor suite. An essential component of the MASS_ISS system architecture, the REKa-50, which signifies “Rheinmetall ESM Ka-Band,” guarantees dependable detection and efficient engagement of threats in the millimeter wave radar frequency spectrum. Furthermore, Rheinmetall serves as a comprehensive supplier, manufacturing decoy systems, crafting the decoy munitions, and providing as well as integrating the sensors. The number of launchers is adjustable, all interconnected and governed by Rheinmetall’s firing algorithms, inclusive of a sensor system equipped with radar and laser warning devices, a tactical control unit, and a power supply.

Rheinmetall is perpetually advancing its acclaimed MASS family to ensure that it continues to deliver optimal protection for ships and boats, whether on the open seas or near the shore.