Germany has taken a major step forward in the development of high-energy laser weapons for naval use. Following the completion of a one-year sea trial phase, Rheinmetall and MBDA Germany have transferred their jointly developed laser demonstrator to the Laser Competence Centre at the Technical Centre for Weapons and Ammunition (WTD 91) in Meppen for further testing.
The handover marks a key milestone in efforts to deliver a powerful and cost-effective laser weapon system for the German Navy by 2029. Supported by WTD 91, the demonstrator has now been successfully commissioned for continued land-based drone-defence testing.
The containerised system underwent more than 100 live-firing and numerous tracking trials aboard the frigate SACHSEN over the past year, proving its reliability and performance under real operational conditions — a European first for laser technology tested “in front of blue sky,” without natural terrain backdrops.
Designed for precision engagement, the system enables rapid, pinpoint neutralisation of drones, speedboats, and other small, fast-moving targets. It is expected to complement conventional shipboard defences such as guns and missiles, particularly in counter-drone and close-range scenarios.
Future versions could also evolve to intercept more complex threats, including supersonic missiles, rockets, and artillery shells. The system’s advanced optics and sensor technologies — developed entirely in Germany — provide precise target detection and tracking capabilities.
Since 2019, Rheinmetall and MBDA Germany have collaborated on the development of high-energy laser effectors, sharing responsibilities almost equally. MBDA oversees target tracking, the control console, and system integration with naval command networks, while Rheinmetall provides the aiming system, beam guidance, and laser source, as well as integration of the demonstrator aboard SACHSEN.
With continued support from WTD 91, both companies aim to achieve rapid operational readiness for what could become one of the most advanced directed-energy weapon systems in Europe’s naval arsenal.
