Login
iscover
The Germany Navy has successfully proven the combat effectiveness of a ship-mounted laser weapon demonstrator across more than a hundred firings during testing over the last year.
To continue reading the rest of this article, please log in.
Create free account to get unlimited news articles and more!
The Bundeswehr successfully concluded laser weapon trials at sea of the LWD onboard the German frigate Sachsen this month after it was integrated aboard the vessel in June last year.
During the trials, the LWD was tasked with detection and tracking of highly agile targets, interplay of sensors, command and weapon engagement systems and effectors. Possible rules of engagement and successful engagement of targets with a high-energy laser beam were also covered.
The High-Energy Laser Naval Demonstrator Working Group, consisting of MBDA Deutschland GmbH and Rheinmetall, is responsible for development and construction of the LWD, support for the trials and cooperation with the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw).
The trials were also attended by representatives from Germany Navy and Army, Bundeswehr Office for Defence Planning, as well as officials from the British, Netherlands, and Norwegian Navy.
“The LWD has performed more than a hundred test firings onboard the Sachsen and proved that a laser is capable of successfully engaging targets in a maritime environment,” according to a public statement released by MBDA.
“Following nearly a year of tests, the BAAINBw and the defence industry have gained valuable knowledge into the operational possibilities, performance capabilities, and development potential of high-energy laser effectors.
“The demonstrator is currently undergoing detailed examination, after which it will be transferred to Bundeswehr Technical Centre 91 in Meppen.
“The test results and subsequent analysis will be used for minimising risks in a possible next phase … (during) the development of an operational laser weapon system.”
An operational laser weapon system could be used to counter drones, drone swarms, speedboats and possibly missiles at close range, according to both developing companies.
“In the future, it could also undergo a performance upgrade for destroying supersonic missiles, rockets and mortar and artillery rounds,” the statement said.
