Rheinmetall and MBDA Forge Naval Laser Joint Venture

Düsseldorf/Schrobenhausen, 5 January 2026 – The German defense landscape is set for an innovation leap as Rheinmetall and MBDA unveil plans for a joint venture dedicated to advanced naval laser systems, slated to commence in Q1 2026. This initiative builds on their collaborative efforts since 2019, which successfully culminated in a naval laser demonstrator already operational at sea.

Enhancing Naval Capabilities

The inception of this joint venture comes in response to the German Navy’s pressing need for cutting-edge defensive solutions. The forthcoming laser weapon system is designed to complement existing armaments, including conventional munitions. Notably, this system excels at countering threats posed by drones and other fast-moving targets within close engagement ranges.

Key Features and Capabilities:

• Proven Track Record: The collaborative team has previously demonstrated the efficacy of their laser system through extensive testing, including over 100 successful tracking and firing trials against a variety of targets in maritime conditions.
• Precision Targeting: Capable of engaging a target as small as a one-euro coin from a significant distance, the system’s anticipated precision minimizes collateral damage, thereby enhancing operational safety for forces and civilians alike.

Robust Industrial Partnership

Both Rheinmetall and MBDA bring significant expertise to the table, positioning them as leaders in the development of innovative defense solutions. Their history of collaboration underscores a focused strategy to leverage complementary technologies for the advancement of military capabilities without compromising national security.

Roman Köhne, Head of Rheinmetall’s Weapons and Munitions Division, remarked, “This venture reaffirms the resolve of German industry to enhance technological independence and innovation. The focus has always been on harnessing our strengths to deliver high-quality capabilities to the Bundeswehr swiftly.”

Thomas Gottschild, CEO of MBDA Germany, emphasized the strategic implications of this partnership, stating that the establishment of this GmbH (limited liability company) sets a benchmark for the creation of next-generation military technologies rooted in Germany. The enterprise aims not only to bolster defense readiness but also to maintain and create jobs domestically—an objective of paramount importance in today’s geopolitical climate.

Testing and Future Developments

After a successful year of sea trials, where the laser demonstrator underwent rigorous scrutiny, the system has been transferred to the Laser Competence Centre at the Military Technical Service for Weapons and Ammunition (WTD 91) in Meppen. This facility will facilitate further evaluations and land-based trials focused on drone defense, highlighting the versatility of laser systems in modern warfare.

Mission Objectives:

• Expand Germany’s domestic defense capabilities.
• Ensure control over military technology and maintain readiness in various operational scenarios.
• Foster job creation and skill development within the national defense sector.

Conclusion

As the joint venture between Rheinmetall and MBDA unfolds, it symbolizes a critical advancement in naval warfare technology, addressing contemporary security challenges with innovative solutions. By integrating state-of-the-art laser capabilities into the German Navy’s arsenal, this partnership aims to fortify not only national defense but also Germany’s competitive edge in global military technology.

The ongoing evolution of laser weapon systems reflects the broader trend towards precision engagement in defense strategies, emphasizing the need for adaptive and responsive military capabilities in an increasingly complex security environment.