The effectiveness of the LWD was demonstrated by the downing of an unmanned aerial vehicle, which was also observed by representatives from the British, Dutch and Norwegian navies. According to the German company Rheinmetall, the Laser Weapon Demonstrator (LWD), which was successfully integrated into the German frigate “SACHSEN” in June 2022, has successfully completed its sea trials.
The Naval High Energy Laser Demonstration Task Force, otherwise known as ARGE, is tasked with developing and manufacturing the LWD and providing support during testing.
ARGE, consisting of MBDA Deutschland GmbH and Rheinmetall, worked closely with the Bundeswehr’s Federal Office for Equipment, Information and In-Service Support (BAAINBw), tasked with planning and organizing these tests.
One year trials
Nearly a year-long series of six tests validated the LWD’s combat effectiveness by testing it in progressively more complex scenarios against various types of targets under realistic operational conditions.
All possible scenarios were explored, including target detection and tracking, sensor interaction with command and weapon engagement systems, and establishing possible rules of engagement. The high-energy laser beam also proved its ability to successfully engage targets.
In more than a hundred test firings at Sachsen, the LWD demonstrated the feasibility of using lasers to effectively engage targets in a maritime environment.
Excellent cooperation
The successful demonstration of the LWD’s capabilities over the two days left a positive impression on high-ranking representatives, including the BAAINBw, the German Navy and Army and the Bundeswehr Defense Planning Office (PlgABw). The effectiveness of the LWD was demonstrated by the downing of an unmanned aerial vehicle, which was also observed by representatives from the British, Dutch and Norwegian navies.
Under control
Currently, the laser weapon is under detailed scrutiny. After the inspection, it will be transferred to the Bundeswehr Technical Center 91 in Meppen. Findings from the tests and subsequent data analysis will influence risk minimization strategies applied to the development of an operational laser weapon system.
With the necessary conditions, “the journey has begun” towards the development of the first laser weapon. Both companies have begun internal preparations for their respective roles in the upcoming development phase.
An operational laser weapon system could complement gun- and guided-missile-based systems, countering threats from drones, drone swarms, speedboats, and possibly even very short-range missiles. It carries future upgrade capabilities to destroy hypersonic missiles, rockets, and even mortar and artillery shells.
