German Armed Forces Contract Laser Weapon Development for Naval Use

The equipment office of the German armed forces signed a contract in June with two companies to develop a high-energy laser weapon system for naval vessels. The contract covers the full system from reconnaissance to target tracking and engagement, with an expected operational date of 2029.

The contract value falls in the mid three-digit million-euro range. A laser weapon demonstrator developed by the same companies has already been tested aboard a German frigate, covering 28,000 nautical miles and firing more than 1,000 shots at air, sea, and land targets.

The containerized laser effector can focus power on an area a few centimeters wide and has performed effectively in adverse weather conditions. Officials said the system will provide higher protection against drones for personnel on naval vessels. Serial production will largely take place in Germany, with emphasis on domestic supply chains and local systems expertise.

The same companies stated the weapon system has reached a very high level of technological maturity.

The French-German Research Institute of Saint-Louis tested an electromagnetic railgun outdoors for the first time in June. The institute plans to work on higher energy levels and longer distances toward a possible future deployable system. Belgium will purchase 20 anti-drone cannons and 14 radars as part of a €3.1 billion investment to build a layered air defense system.