Rheinmetall tests HEL effector
Rheinmetall and the German armed forces have successfully tested a high-energy laser (HEL) effector that was installed on a German warship operating on the high seas, the company announced on 19 February.
Rheinmetall mounted a 10-kilowatt HEL effector on a MLG 27 light naval gun to conduct the test, which included tracking of potential targets, including UAVs and very small surface craft. The HEL effector was also tested against stationary targets on land.
The company claims that the test demonstrated the effectiveness of its HEL effector technology in maritime operations and revealed information important for the development of future HEL naval effectors.
The MLG 27 light gun is designed to provide point-defence protection for both land- and sea-based units. The naval variant of the weapon system is designed for layered ship self-defence and can engage surface and air targets, including high-speed, highly manoeuvrable watercraft and targets on shore.
You may also like
More from Naval Warfare
-
![ST Engineering to supply the Republic of Singapore Navy with counter-mine systems]()
ST Engineering to supply the Republic of Singapore Navy with counter-mine systems
Singapore Technologies Engineering (ST Engineering) will supply uncrewed naval systems and supporting command and control equipment to support counter-mine operations with deliveries expected to begin in 2027.
-
![SOF Week 2025: SubSea Craft introduces MARS USV]()
SOF Week 2025: SubSea Craft introduces MARS USV
The MARS platform was built be a low-signature, multi-role, mission-configurable capability.
-
![US and European special operators test Icelandic AI-based solution for marine platforms]()
US and European special operators test Icelandic AI-based solution for marine platforms
Hefring Marine IMAS was designed to optimise vessels’ operation.
-
![US Navy expands GARC sUSV deployment]()
US Navy expands GARC sUSV deployment
The small, unmanned surface vehicle will operate this year in multiple operations and military exercises worldwide.
-
![Another $18.4 billion committed to USN Virginia-class submarines]()
Another $18.4 billion committed to USN Virginia-class submarines
The contract was awarded to HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division and General Dynamics Electric Boat (GDEB). As well as for the building of the boats, contract money will also go towards improving productivity at the shipyards, workforce support and other investment.
