Germany Orders Airborne Laser Demonstrator From MBDA
MBDA will develop key laser pod components as Germany studies aircraft integration and future Luftwaffe use, following naval tests that fired more than 1,000 shots.
- On Monday, November 2, 2026, the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support awarded MBDA Deutschland a contract to build an airborne laser demonstrator for the German Air Force .
- This project builds on MBDA's work since 2008, including a maritime laser weapon demonstrator developed with Rheinmetall Waffe Munition and installed aboard the frigate Sachsen for sea trials through September 2023.
- MBDA describes airborne laser development as the "supreme discipline," citing demanding requirements for size, weight, and resistance to flight stresses; integrating power, cooling, and optical systems into a constrained pod presents significant engineering hurdles.
- The contract reinforces Germany's 2019 strategic research priority to retain domestic defense expertise and reduce dependence on foreign technology for future laser weapon systems.
- While Germany joins a global push for directed-energy weapons, previous U.S. efforts like the SHiELD program and DE M-SHORAD illustrate the difficulties in moving from demonstrations toward reliable operational capabilities.
11 Articles
11 Articles
Airborne Laser Weapon For Tactical Aircraft Being Developed By Germany
The new initiative aims to eventually equip Luftwaffe combat aircraft with a laser capable of shooting down drones and missiles. A new contract aims to lay the groundwork for a Luftwaffe laser weapon against drones and cruise missiles.
MBDA is developing a laser for fighter jets for the Bundeswehr. The order marks the step from use on the ground and on ships to aircraft. Within three years the technological foundations are to be created.
MBDA's German arm has been awarded a contract to develop a demonstrator for an aircraft pod with a laser weapon. The solution will be based on domestic research and industry and will be used as a weapon for future manned jets and drones, MBDA announced.
The European manufacturer MBDA has secured a contract with the German army to design a high-energy laser demonstrator for military aircraft. With an initial power of 10 kilowatts, this system housed in a nacelle under the fuselage aims to shoot down drones and missiles in full flight, with first air tests scheduled for 2031.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 67% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
