DÜSSELDORF, Germany — German defense company Rheinmetall has received its first order from the Kuwaiti Naval Forces to supply its Multi Ammunition Softkill System (MASS), marking the first delivery of the naval decoy launcher system to Kuwait. The systems will be installed on eight new Al Dorra-class guided-missile boats as part of Kuwait's largest naval shipbuilding program in more than 15 years.
According to Rheinmetall, the order for the MASS launchers is valued in the low double-digit million-euro range, while the accompanying contract for Omnitrap decoy ammunition is worth a high single-digit million-euro range. The total contract value was booked in the second quarter of 2026.
The contract also includes system integration and verification activities. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2026 upon receipt of the order and are expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2029.
MASS to Equip Eight Al Dorra-Class Vessels
Under the agreement, Rheinmetall will equip all eight Al Dorra-class guided-missile boats with the MASS decoy launcher system. The vessels are described by the company as versatile open-sea stealth patrol vessels.
The Al Dorra-class boats are being built by Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) on behalf of the United Arab Emirates-based EDGE Group, which serves as the prime contractor for the project.
The procurement represents Rheinmetall's first delivery of the MASS system to Kuwait and supports the country's ongoing naval modernization efforts.
Omnitrap-ER Decoy Ammunition Included
In addition to the launcher systems, the Kuwaiti Armed Forces have ordered Omnitrap-ER decoy ammunition.
According to Rheinmetall, the latest generation of Omnitrap decoys features an extended range and an improved trajectory, enabling the precise deployment of decoys against state-of-the-art imaging radar and infrared-guided threats.
Designed to Counter Modern Naval Threats
Rheinmetall states that the Multi Ammunition Softkill System (MASS) is designed to protect ships and boats against a wide range of threats, including anti-ship missiles and laser-guided weapons.
The system deploys multispectral decoys from a single fully computerized, trainable launcher. These decoys provide protection across multiple wavelength ranges, including:
- Radar
- Ultraviolet
- Electro-optical sensors
- Lasers
- Infrared
According to the company, the system is designed for operations on the high seas, coastal waters, and rivers.
Modular System for Different Naval Platforms
Rheinmetall says the modular design of MASS allows it to be installed on a wide range of naval platforms, from offshore patrol vessels to frigates.
The system can be integrated into existing command and weapon control systems with minimal effort or operated as a standalone solution, providing flexibility for different vessel types.
The contract marks Rheinmetall's first supply of the MASS decoy launcher system to Kuwait and expands the deployment of the company's naval soft-kill protection system as the Kuwaiti Naval Forces prepare to introduce their new Al Dorra-class guided-missile boats into service.
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