The laser weapon demonstrator (LWD) has successfully completed its almost year-long test on the frigate 124 “SACHSEN”. According to a statement from the High Energy Laser Marine Demonstrator Working Group (ARGE), consisting of MBDA Deutschland GmbH and Rheinmetall Waffen Munition GmbH, the LWD had to face increasingly complex scenarios in a total of six campaigns. Under realistic conditions, targets of different sizes and speeds were presented at varying distances, against which the performance of the LWD and its components was measured. In the experimental program, all aspects from tracking - including highly agile targets - to the interaction of sensors, command/weapon deployment system and effector, possible rules of engagement and the successful combat of targets using high-energy laser radiation were tested.
According to the ARGE, more than 100 test shots on board the frigate “SACHSEN” demonstrated that a laser weapon is capable of successfully combating a wide variety of targets in the maritime environment. After the testing was completed, high-ranking representatives from the Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and Use of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw), the German Navy, the German Army and the Bundeswehr Planning Office were able to see this for themselves, including by shooting down a drone.
After acquiring important knowledge about the possible uses, performance and development potential of high-energy laser effectors, the demonstrator goes to the Defense Technical Office 91 in Meppen after an extensive examination, where further tests will take place. The results of testing and investigation should be used to minimize the risk for the possible next phase, the development of an operational laser weapon system. According to their own statements, the two companies involved in the ARGE have already begun internal preparations for the development phase within their respective areas of responsibility.
In conclusion, the ARGE states that an operational laser weapon system is suitable as a complement to barrel weapons and guided missiles, particularly for defending against drones, swarms of drones or attacking speedboats and, if necessary, guided missiles in the close and immediate range. In the future, however, it could also be equipped with more powerful equipment and used to destroy supersonic guided missiles and rockets as well as mortar and artillery shells.
gwh / editors
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