Deutschland comeback post WW2? Germany’s floating laser-weapon: FGS Sachsen tests Rheinmetall-MBDA HEL system that melts drones mid-air

Talk of lasers and artillery often reads like science-fiction. But Germany has made a leap-forward: the defence company Rheinmetall AG in collaboration with MBDA Deutschland GmbH have developed a containerised ship-based laser weapon demonstrator, mounted aboard the frigate FGS Sachsen (F219), which completed more than 100 test firings in sea trials

The design is modular and containerised, meaning the laser module is self-contained, enabling potential deployment on ship decks or land platforms. The declared aim: defend against drones, unmanned swarms and small surface threats far more cost-effectively than conventional missiles.

While precise cost-per-engagement figures are not publicly verified, industry commentary emphasises that directed-energy weapons like this could dramatically lower marginal shot cost compared with missiles. The German industry roadmap hints operational availability by the end of the decade.


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Germany’s defence posture has shifted accordingly. In 2024, military expenditure reached approximately US $88.5 billion, positioning Germany as the world’s fourth largest military spender. Rheinmetall’s own financials underscore the trend: in 2024 the company recorded consolidated sales of about €9.75 billion, with defence business comprising the bulk of that growth.

From one of the most pacifist major powers in Europe post-WW2, Germany has moved decisively toward modernisation, especially naval and air defence sectors. Rheinmetall’s demonstrator is often cited as a symbol of that shift.

There are also ethics and corporate history dimensions. Rheinmetall’s wartime predecessor entities used forced labour during the Nazi era, a fact the company acknowledges in its historical statements. While this does not negate current work, it adds complexity to corporate reputation amid arms-industry scrutiny.

As navies worldwide grapple with drone-threat proliferation, systems like this one may reshape defence calculus: cheaper per shot, faster reaction times, lower logistics footprint. But challenges remain: system integration, power/thermal management aboard ship platforms, sensor-integration and rules of engagement in operational theatres.