Germany Successfully Completes Marine Tests of Laser Weapons
Germany reached significant progress in the field of marine defense technology, successfully completing the marine tests of laser weapons (Laser Weapon Demonstrator, LWD). The tests were carried out after the integration of LWD on the frigate of the German fleet “Sachsen” in 2022.
The development, construction, and support during the tests were carried out by a working group for demonstrating high-energy lasers, known as Arge, which includes MBDA Deutschland GmbH and Rheinmetall. During the year, six campaigns were carried out to assess the combat efficiency of LWD. Weapons were tested in complex scenarios under realistic operating conditions against various types of targets.
LWD held more than a hundred test shots on board Sachsen, demonstrating its ability to successfully attack targets in the marine environment. At the end of the tests, LWD capabilities were successfully demonstrated within two days. This demonstration was attended by representatives from the UK, the Netherlands, and Norway. The success of the test campaign was the result of cooperation between Baainbw and its subordinate units, the German fleet, and the crew of the Sachsen frigate, as well as Arge.
After the year of testing, Baainbw and the defense industry have received valuable knowledge about the capabilities, performance, and potential of the development of high-energy laser effectors. Currently, the new weapon is subjected to a detailed study, after which it will be transferred to the Bundeswehr 91 Technical Center in Meppen. The results of tests and subsequent analysis will be used to minimize risks at the next stage, that is, when developing the operational system of laser weapons.
Both companies began internal preparatory work for the next development phase. It is expected that the operational system of laser weapons will supplement existing systems based on small arms and controlled missiles. It is especially suitable for counteracting threats from drones, high-speed boats, and missiles launched from short distances. In addition, in the future, the system can be modernized to destroy supersonic missiles, missiles, and shells from mort