Operational Laser Weapon for the German Navy By 2029

A high-energy laser demonstrator transferred for further testing in Germany has set the German Navy on a path toward operational shipborne laser weapons by 2029.

Following a one-year testing phase at sea, defense companies Rheinmetall and MBDA in Germany moved the container-based system to the Laser Competence Centre at the Technical Centre for Weapons and Ammunition (WTD 91) in Meppen. The weapon has already completed more than 100 live-firing trials on board the frigate Sachsen, demonstrating tracking capability and accuracy against drones under real maritime conditions.

Further land-based evaluation now focuses on its effectiveness against drones and other fast-moving threats. The laser weapon is intended to supplement cannons and guided missiles in close-range defense roles. Planned missions include countering drone swarms, engaging speedboats, and intercepting guided missiles approaching naval vessels.

The system uses German-developed optics and sensors for target detection and tracking. Integration work has been shared between the two contractors since 2019.

MBDA in Germany oversees target tracking, the control console, and command-and-control integration. Rheinmetall provides the aiming system, beam guidance, demonstrator container, and the high-energy laser source.

Work at Meppen, supported by WTD 91, aims to accelerate progress toward operational deployment.

Officials expect the first operational naval laser weapon to be available from 2029.