NEW YORK, BRONX (ORDO News) — In a groundbreaking achievement, the German Navy has concluded a year-long test of a 20 kW laser weapon demonstrator, marking a significant milestone for NATO.
The tests, conducted in real sea conditions, were organized by the Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology, and Technical Support of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw) and executed by the High-Energy Laser Weapons Demonstrator (ARGE) working group, which included MBDA Deutschland and Rheinmetall.
The modular laser weapon system was installed on the frigate Sachsen, a formidable 5,800-ton warship, during the testing phase. Comprising 12 2 kW laser modules that produce high-quality laser beams, these beams are combined into a more potent single beam using spectral coupling technology. The system’s capabilities can be expanded to 100 kW.
Over the course of a year, the German Navy conducted six tests of the laser system against various targets, including agile ones. The laser system seamlessly integrated with the ship’s sensors to detect, track, and engage targets based on predefined rules of engagement and in coordination with other systems on the Sachsen.
Throughout testing, the laser weapon demonstrator discharged over a hundred rounds, showcasing its efficacy in countering drones, swarms of drones, high-speed boats, and short-range missiles. The successful demonstration culminated in two VIP days, during which senior German and NATO officials were introduced to the capabilities of the laser weapon.
According to Rheinmetall, a leading manufacturer of laser weapons, future enhancements will enable the system to neutralize supersonic missiles, rockets, as well as mortar and artillery shells. This underscores the potential of laser weapons to establish advanced defenses against a wide spectrum of threats.
Dr. Marco Nörenberg, Head of Laser Technology at Rheinmetall, emphasized the significance of the successful tests, stating that the laser weapon demonstrator has showcased its combat readiness and suitability for everyday use in a naval environment. He further highlighted the newfound capabilities that laser technology offers to the Bundeswehr and NATO in effectively countering evolving threats.
Dr. Ulrich Wegmann, Senior Vice President of MBDA Deutschland, underscored the pivotal role of laser weapons in modern warfare, noting that they possess the potential to revolutionize naval warfare by offering precise, scalable, and cost-effective solutions to defend against a diverse array of threats.
The completion of the year-long test by the German Navy represents a major stride in the integration and deployment of laser weapons within NATO.
The modular laser weapon system has proven its mettle against an array of threats, and upcoming upgrades promise even greater effectiveness against supersonic missiles and other projectiles. Laser technologies are poised to play a crucial role in augmenting defense capabilities and safeguarding maritime security.
—
Online:
News agencies contributed to this report, edited and published by ORDO News editors.
Contact us: [email protected]
Our Standards, Terms of Use: Standard Terms And Conditions.
To eliminate any confusion arising from different time zones and daylight saving changes, all times displayed on our platforms are in Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).