Rheinmetall and MBDA are set to develop a high-energy laser weapon for the German Navy. The system, expected to be operational in 2029, will provide protection against drones and other threats.
The contract, signed in June, is valued in the mid three-digit million-euro range and will cover the development of the full system, from reconnaissance to target tracking and engagement.
The laser weapon system has already shown a high level of technological maturity, with a demonstrator having been tested on the German frigate Sachsen, firing over 1,000 shots at various targets.
