A high-energy containerized laser system being developed in Germany has moved from sea trials to additional testing at the Laser Competence Center in Meppen.
The laser, being developed by the German companies Rheinmetall and MBDA, is subject to further testing and integration work but could be available starting in 2029, according to the companies.
According to the companies, the demonstrator could act as a complement to existing naval weapons. The laser can neutralize drones and small vessels at a low cost per shot, freeing missiles and guns for higher-value threats.
Additionally, the system could, with future upgrades, engage hypersonic guided missiles, rockets, and even mortar and artillery shells.
The prototype spent a year at sea aboard the frigate Sachsen, where it completed over 100 live-fire tests and additional tracking trials.
Rheinmetall and MBDA stated that these tests demonstrated the system’s robustness and performance under realistic maritime conditions, including engaging small, high-speed targets without relying on terrain to block the radiation beam.
Last Tuesday (28), the container was incorporated into the Weapons and Ammunition Technical Center (WTD 91) in Meppen for further land-based drone defense tests.
Photo: Rheinmetall. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
