Rheinmetall Bolsters Portuguese Military with Delivery of 1,500 Cutting-Edge LM-LowProfile Laser Systems
The Portuguese Army has entrusted Rheinmetall with a contract for 1,500 LM-LowProfile laser units. This agreement, finalized in October 2020, stipulates delivery of the equipment in three phases. The entire shipment is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2021. The value of this order is estimated to fall within the low single-digit million-euro bracket. For this project, Rheinmetall is collaborating closely with its local partner, NT Group Portugal.
Engineered by Rheinmetall Soldier Electronics based in Stockach, Germany, the compact LM-LowProfile laser unit is intended for utilization on small assault rifles but is also compatible with other light firearms. Weighing approximately 160 grams and measuring 85 mm in length, it can be mounted on any standard assault rifle through a conventional interface as specified by MIL-STD 1913/NATO STANAG 4694. Due to its slim profile (25 mm), it can function in conjunction with daylight optics without obstructing the line of sight. The laser’s alignment along the operating axis makes it particularly suited for firearms lacking detachable mechanical sights (rear and front sights). Powered by a CR123 battery, the LM-LowProfile incorporates visible and infrared target indicators along with a focusable infrared illuminator. All integrated lasers can be adjusted simultaneously using block adjustment. They can be controlled remotely through a trigger cable or via a single button located directly on the device. The LM-LowProfile is waterproof at depths of up to 30 meters for a duration of two hours. Adding a tactical lighting system significantly boosts the laser module’s operational capability. Rheinmetall has previously supplied the Portuguese Army with a weapon light under an earlier contract.
In comparative evaluations conducted by the Portuguese forces, the unit performed decisively better than competing products in terms of usability and functionality. Furthermore, the LM-LowProfile benefits from the significant advantage of not being constrained by America’s stringent ITAR export regulations. Laser engraving capabilities allow for individual customization of the units.
Shipments are currently in progress, marking the third contract from Portugal within the last three years, which highlights the high level of confidence the Portuguese military has in Rheinmetall’s expertise in soldier systems.
