Laser Weapon Demonstrator
Type: Anti-Drone System
Domain: sea
Country of Origin: Germany
Manufacturer: Rheinmetall
Overview
Ship-based high-energy laser weapon system under development by Rheinmetall for close-in defence of naval vessels against asymmetric threats, UAVs, small boats, and potentially incoming missiles. The demonstrator system has achieved power levels of 20-50 kW in trials, with a roadmap to 100+ kW operational systems. Uses fibre laser technology with spectral beam combining to scale power output. Key advantages include near-zero cost per engagement (compared to expensive missile interceptors), deep magazine (limited only by ship's power generation), and speed-of-light engagement with no ballistic lead required. Tested at sea on the F124 frigate Sachsen, successfully engaging UAV and artillery targets. Rheinmetall aims to deliver an operational 50-100 kW naval laser weapon by the late 2020s as a complement to kinetic CIWS.
Technical Specifications
| role | Counter-UAS, counter-small boat |
|---|---|
| status | Prototype/demonstrator |
| platform | Naval vessel mount |
| manufacturer | Rheinmetall |
| power_planned | 50–100 kW |
| power_demonstrator | Up to 20 kW |
Operators
- Germany
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