On October 28, 2023, the German military received a demonstrator of a high-energy laser weapon developed by Rheinmetall and MBDA. The system was relocated to the Laser Competence Centre at the Technical Centre for Weapons and Ammunition (WTD 91) in Meppen, Germany.

**Details of the Demonstrator**
The laser system was tested aboard the German Navy frigate Sachsen for one year, during which it underwent over 100 live-firing tests under operational maritime conditions. This phase proved its capability to track and engage drones and other fast-moving targets.

**Significance of the Trials**
Rheinmetall noted that the system had achieved a significant milestone for Europe by successfully engaging targets “in front of blue sky,” meaning it could operate without relying on terrain as a backdrop for the laser beam. The trials validated the weapon’s tracking capability, precision, and rapid response to threats, especially highlighting the increasing challenge drones pose in modern warfare.

**Intended Use and Future Developments**
The laser weapon is intended to complement traditional defense systems, such as cannons and guided missiles, primarily focusing on the defense against drones and similar threats. Future versions of the weapon could be capable of engaging larger threats, including supersonic missiles and artillery shells, with potential power scaling exceeding 100 kilowatts.

**Collaborative Development**
Since 2019, Rheinmetall and MBDA Germany have collaborated on the laser weapon project, dividing responsibilities. MBDA focuses on target detection and tracking, while Rheinmetall manages the aiming system and laser source integration aboard naval platforms.

**Next Steps in Testing and Procurement**
The demonstrator will now undergo additional land-based testing aimed at drone defense at WTD 91, one of Western Europe’s largest instrumented firing ranges. If these tests meet German military requirements, procurement decisions could follow in the next few years, positioning Germany among a select group of nations equipped with operational naval laser weapons, alongside the United States and Israel.

**Author’s Background**
The article was written by Linus Höller, Defense News’ Europe correspondent, who specializes in reporting on arms deals, sanctions, and international relations. He holds multiple master’s degrees and is proficient in four languages: English, German, Russian, and Spanish.