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[SITUATION] · [QUIET] · [TECHNOLOGY]

2 clusters · 4 sources · 19 days · First seen · Last updated

German military laser defense development

Overview

The German Bundeswehr has advanced its laser-based defense capabilities through both public demonstrations and new procurement contracts. In October 2026, the military conducted a public demonstration of the ‘Laserdome’ innovation project at Strausberg Airfield. This system, developed with INLEAP Photonics and the University of Hannover, uses artificial intelligence to identify and target drone vulnerabilities, such as rotor arms, to counter drone swarms.

Following this demonstration, MBDA Deutschland was awarded a contract by the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) in November 2026. This project focuses on developing an airborne laser demonstrator, specifically a laser pod designed for aircraft to counter drones and cruise missiles. The initiative aims to establish technological foundations for future airborne laser weapons while prioritizing German supply chains and domestic expertise.

Entities

Bundeswehr · INLEAP Photonics · Strausberg Airfield · Germany · MBDA

Timeline

  1. [TECHNOLOGY] 4 sources
    MBDA awarded German contract for airborne laser demonstrator

    MBDA Deutschland will build an airborne laser demonstrator for the German Bundeswehr to test future aircraft-based laser weapon capabilities against drones and cruise missiles.

  2. [TECHNOLOGY] 2 sources
    Bundeswehr demonstrates AI-powered laser drone defense in Germany

    The Bundeswehr demonstrated a new AI-supported laser weapon at Strausberg Airfield, designed to detect and disable drone swarms through targeted strikes on critical components.

Sources

defence-industry.eu · generation-nt.com · mbda-deutschland.de · neokohn.hu