Rheinmetall and MBDA Deutschland to continue laser weapon co-operation

Rheinmetall and MBDA Deutschland announced on 20 September 2024 that they are to continue their successful co-operation in the field of laser weapons.

The aim is to bring a joint maritime product to the market within the next five to six years, which opens up new possibilities, particularly in relation to counter-unmanned aerial vehicle defences on ships. Both companies are convinced that their complementary skills in the field of laser weapon technology will enable them to successfully develop a military laser weapon system. The companies have thus now concluded a corresponding co-operation agreement.

Most recently, a laser weapon demonstrator from Rheinmetall and MBDA Germany was integrated on the German Navy’s F124 frigate Sachsen from June 2022 until September 2023. During this onboard trial, the demonstrator performed impressively in more than 100 test shots, Rheinmetall stated in a press release.