Rheinmetall and MBDA Win Laser Weapon Contract for German Navy

German defense company Rheinmetall and European missile manufacturer MBDA have won a contract to develop a laser weapon system for the German Navy. According to Reuters, under the contract, the companies will produce a high-energy laser weapon prototype for use on naval platforms. The project will be funded from the German defense budget and aims to provide effective defense against low-cost threats in future naval operations. The contract covers research and development work by the joint venture of Rheinmetall and MBDA. The laser weapon system will be used particularly against asymmetric threats such as unmanned aerial vehicles, fast boats, and missiles. The German Navy plans to reduce ammunition costs and increase operational flexibility with this technology. Rheinmetall has previously developed laser weapon systems for land and air platforms. MBDA is known as Europe's leading missile systems manufacturer. The collaboration between the two companies aims to enhance Germany's global competitiveness in laser weapon technology. In the initial phase of the project, testing and integration of the laser weapon under naval conditions are planned. If successful, the system is expected to be ready for use on German Navy ships by 2025. Detailed information on the contract value and duration has not been disclosed. This is not investment advice.