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Rheinmetall, MBDA Form Joint Venture for Laser Weapons

January 5, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

Rheinmetall and MBDA Deutschland form a joint venture for laser weapons.
The venture will focus on naval laser systems initially.
A shipborne demonstrator has already been tested at sea.
The companies aim for a fully operational system by 2029.

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Strategic Implications

This joint venture may accelerate the development of high-energy laser systems for naval defense, which could complement traditional gun and missile systems. The partnership suggests a growing emphasis on directed energy solutions in Europe, which may indicate a shift in defense priorities towards countering emerging threats such as drones.

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What Happened

German Defense Contractors Unite For High Energy Laser Development

German defense contractors Rheinmetall and MBDA Deutschland are establishing a joint venture to develop high-energy laser weapons, with an initial focus on naval systems. The move follows successful trials of a shipborne demonstrator, which has brought the concept close to market readiness. The companies aim to have a fully operational system in service by 2029, with the joint venture expected to shorten the development timeline. This development is part of a broader European push towards laser and directed-energy solutions, as reported by AeroTime.

Source

Companies Mentioned