Rheinmetall, MBDA to develop laser weapon for German Navy

On 9 July 2026, the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) signed a contract with the High-Energy Laser Naval Demonstrator Working Group (ARGE HEL) for the development of a high-energy laser weapon system for the German Navy. Rheinmetall press release The ARGE HEL consists of MBDA Deutschland and Rheinmetall Waffe Munition. The two companies are currently forming a joint venture for this purpose. The laser weapon system is expected to be operational by 2029.

PARIS Rheinmetall and MBDA will develop a high-energy laser weapon for the Germany Navy that builds on previous work by the two companies on a laser demonstrator, with the weapon system expected to be operational in 2029. The equipment office of the German armed forces signed a contract with MBDA Deutschland and Rheinmetall Waffe Munition in June to develop the full system, from reconnaissance to target tracking and engagement, the companies said in statements on Thursday. The contract value is in the “mid three-digit” million-euro range, Rheinmetall said .