COCHSTEDT, Germany — Rheinmetall has successfully demonstrated the launch of its FV-014 loitering munition from the company’s Containerized Missile Launcher (CML), a modular multi-launcher designed for loitering munitions and guided missiles.
The live-fire demonstration took place in July 2026 at the National Test Centre for Unmanned Aerial Systems operated by the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) in Cochstedt, Saxony-Anhalt. During a customer demonstration, the FV-014 was launched from a Rheinmetall HX truck in both stationary and moving configurations. The system then carried out simulated operational profiles and attack flights.
The FV-014 and CML are both Rheinmetall developments.
FV-014 combines reconnaissance and precision strike
The FV-014 is designed as a portable reconnaissance and strike system that combines target observation, tracking and precision engagement. Rheinmetall describes the system as bridging the tactical gap between reconnaissance drones and conventional artillery.
The drone has a flight endurance of up to 70 minutes and a range of up to 100 kilometres. Its data-link range is up to 60 kilometres. A 360-degree swivelling gimbal in the nose allows the system to observe potential targets over extended periods.
Rheinmetall states that the FV-014 has an approximate launch weight of 20 kilograms. The system carries an HEDP (High-Explosive Dual Purpose) warhead with a penetration capability of more than 600 millimetres against armoured targets. The warhead is also intended for use against unarmoured targets and infrastructure.
The FV-014 uses an electric propulsion system and an aerodynamic wing design. Rheinmetall says the design is intended to reduce acoustic, radar and infrared signatures. The system is also designed to operate in environments affected by GNSS interference.
After being launched from a transport and launch container using a booster, the FV-014 unfolds its wings and transitions into aerodynamic flight. Its endurance provides time for reconnaissance, target selection and an attack decision.
Human control and swarm operations
The FV-014 is controlled through a ground station with continuous human-in-the-loop oversight. Operators can identify and track targets, conduct an attack or abort the mission if circumstances change.
Its software architecture also supports swarm operations. Rheinmetall says multiple FV-014 systems can be controlled simultaneously by a single operator, allowing several targets to be engaged or enabling coordinated attacks against defended areas.
The system is designed to operate as part of Rheinmetall’s reconnaissance and strike network. It can also be integrated with other systems, including the LUNA NG reconnaissance drone, to support the flow of information from reconnaissance to engagement.
Containerized Missile Launcher
The CML is based on a standard 20-foot container and was publicly presented by Rheinmetall for the first time at Eurosatory 2026 in June. The launcher can accommodate up to 18 FV-014 systems. Rheinmetall describes it as a modular, networked system that can operate from different platforms.
The container can be deployed as a standalone system or mounted on platforms including trucks, trains and ships. An integrated power supply and communication modules support autonomous operation, while a battery system and sleep mode allow the launcher to remain in standby before being activated.
The CML can connect to command, control, communications, computers and intelligence (C4I) networks. Rheinmetall says communication can be supported through radio and satellite links, depending on the configuration. The standardized container format is intended to simplify transport and deployment across different platforms.
Rheinmetall expands FV-014 programme
The July demonstration follows earlier FV-014 testing and demonstrations. In February 2026, Rheinmetall demonstrated the system to a potential NATO customer at the DLR National Test Centre for Unmanned Aerial Systems in Cochstedt. That demonstration involved simulated mission scenarios and attack flights.
In April 2026, Rheinmetall announced a framework agreement worth billions of euros with the German Armed Forces for large quantities of FV-014 loitering munitions. The first call-off was valued at approximately €300 million, while deliveries are scheduled to begin in the first half of 2027 following qualification.
The company says the FV-014 is developed and manufactured entirely within the European Union and is designed for industrial-scale production. The CML demonstration adds a mobile multi-launch capability to the system, allowing the FV-014 to be deployed from containerized launchers on land and maritime platforms.
COCHSTEDT, Germany, August 13, 2026 — Rheinmetall has successfully demonstrated the launch of its FV-014 loitering munition from the company’s Containerized Missile Launcher (CML), a modular multi-launcher designed for loitering munitions and guided missiles.
The live-fire demonstration took place in July 2026 at the National Test Centre for Unmanned Aerial Systems operated by the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) in Cochstedt, Saxony-Anhalt. During a customer demonstration, the FV-014 was launched from a Rheinmetall HX truck in both stationary and moving configurations. The system then carried out simulated operational profiles and attack flights.
The FV-014 and CML are both Rheinmetall developments.
FV-014 combines reconnaissance and precision strike
The FV-014 is designed as a portable reconnaissance and strike system that combines target observation, tracking and precision engagement. Rheinmetall describes the system as bridging the tactical gap between reconnaissance drones and conventional artillery.
The drone has a flight endurance of up to 70 minutes and a range of up to 100 kilometres. Its data-link range is up to 60 kilometres. A 360-degree swivelling gimbal in the nose allows the system to observe potential targets over extended periods.
Rheinmetall states that the FV-014 has an approximate launch weight of 20 kilograms. The system carries an HEDP (High-Explosive Dual Purpose) warhead with a penetration capability of more than 600 millimetres against armoured targets. The warhead is also intended for use against unarmoured targets and infrastructure.
The FV-014 uses an electric propulsion system and an aerodynamic wing design. Rheinmetall says the design is intended to reduce acoustic, radar and infrared signatures. The system is also designed to operate in environments affected by GNSS interference.
After being launched from a transport and launch container using a booster, the FV-014 unfolds its wings and transitions into aerodynamic flight. Its endurance provides time for reconnaissance, target selection and an attack decision.
Human control and swarm operations
The FV-014 is controlled through a ground station with continuous human-in-the-loop oversight. Operators can identify and track targets, conduct an attack or abort the mission if circumstances change.
Its software architecture also supports swarm operations. Rheinmetall says multiple FV-014 systems can be controlled simultaneously by a single operator, allowing several targets to be engaged or enabling coordinated attacks against defended areas.
The system is designed to operate as part of Rheinmetall’s reconnaissance and strike network. It can also be integrated with other systems, including the LUNA NG reconnaissance drone, to support the flow of information from reconnaissance to engagement.
Containerized Missile Launcher
The CML is based on a standard 20-foot container and was publicly presented by Rheinmetall for the first time at Eurosatory 2026 in June. The launcher can accommodate up to 18 FV-014 systems. Rheinmetall describes it as a modular, networked system that can operate from different platforms.
The container can be deployed as a standalone system or mounted on platforms including trucks, trains and ships. An integrated power supply and communication modules support autonomous operation, while a battery system and sleep mode allow the launcher to remain in standby before being activated.
The CML can connect to command, control, communications, computers and intelligence (C4I) networks. Rheinmetall says communication can be supported through radio and satellite links, depending on the configuration. The standardized container format is intended to simplify transport and deployment across different platforms.
Rheinmetall expands FV-014 programme
The July demonstration follows earlier FV-014 testing and demonstrations. In February 2026, Rheinmetall demonstrated the system to a potential NATO customer at the DLR National Test Centre for Unmanned Aerial Systems in Cochstedt. That demonstration involved simulated mission scenarios and attack flights.
In April 2026, Rheinmetall announced a framework agreement worth billions of euros with the German Armed Forces for large quantities of FV-014 loitering munitions. The first call-off was valued at approximately €300 million, while deliveries are scheduled to begin in the first half of 2027 following qualification.
The company says the FV-014 is developed and manufactured entirely within the European Union and is designed for industrial-scale production. The CML demonstration adds a mobile multi-launch capability to the system, allowing the FV-014 to be deployed from containerized launchers on land and maritime platforms.
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