BERLIN — MBDA Deutschland has received a contract from Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) to develop an airborne laser weapon demonstrator. The company announced the contract on 2 November 2026.
The project aims to establish the technological foundation for future laser weapons carried by German Air Force (Luftwaffe) aircraft. Under the agreement, key components of the specialised Laser-Pod will be designed to withstand flight conditions and support future airborne operations.
Airborne Laser Development Challenges
Developing an airborne laser weapon presents major engineering challenges due to strict size and weight limits. The system must also manage heat, meet electrical power requirements and maintain beam stability while the aircraft manoeuvres.
The primary objective is to develop a capability to counter hostile drones and cruise missiles. The demonstrator will help assess the feasibility of an airborne laser weapon and prepare for a potential future operational system.
Germany Prioritises Laser Technology
Germany has treated laser technology as a strategic research priority and national key technology since 2019 under the federal government’s and the Federal Ministry of Defence’s SVI strategy.
MBDA will prioritise German supply chains and domestic systems expertise to maintain national technological sovereignty. The company has also invested its own resources in laser technology and developed and tested several demonstrators.
Building on Naval Laser Experience
The airborne project builds on MBDA’s earlier work with Rheinmetall on a naval high-energy laser demonstrator tested aboard the German Navy frigate Sachsen.
The system underwent more than a year of operational testing and covered approximately 28,000 nautical miles, successfully engaging air, sea and land targets. More than 1,000 laser firings were also reported, providing data on beam control and target tracking.
In July 2026, BAAINBw awarded MBDA Deutschland and Rheinmetall a follow-on contract for an operational high-energy laser weapon system for the German Navy. The system is planned to be ready in 2029.
Contract Details and Future Integration
The contract value, detailed development timeline and designated aircraft platform have not been disclosed. One report indicated that development could take around three years, leading to a demonstration.
Preliminary concept illustrations suggest the Laser-Pod could eventually be integrated into unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) alongside manned aircraft. However, no specific platform has been confirmed.
The new contract continues Germany’s effort to develop directed-energy weapons for its armed forces, building on naval laser experience while exploring future airborne applications.
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