MBDA and Leonardo have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on developing a Fire Unit Laser Direct Energy Weapon (DEW) for the Italian Navy.
The weapon will be designed in two power classes – light and high – depending on the threat. The aim is to be able to intercept and neutralise nano and micro-drones made from different material compositions. MBDA will be the design authority for the light laser weapon, which will be dedicated to existing naval units, while Leonardo will take the lead on the high-powered weapon, aimed to be deployed on new naval platforms.
In addition to this, “MBDA will also develop the capability to generate high-power laser beams and Leonardo will create laser beam direction and target pointing systems”, according to MBDA.
This initiative supplements MBDA’s ongoing advancements in laser weapon technology, with several tests of the Laser Weapon Demonstrator having already taken place in Germany, in partnership with Rheinmetall. A multi-stage, highly precise tracker and laser effector was used during these tests, combining multiple laser sources into a single cohesive beam.
MBDA is also advancing its laser-directed energy weapon (LDEW) capabilities through the DragonFire programme, developed in collaboration with Leonardo UK and QinetiQ. DragonFire has already achieved high-power laser firings against aerial targets. Furthermore, MBDA has acquired a stake in CILAS, a French leader in laser technology, which is developing the HELMA-P solution.
As part of this Memorandum of Understanding, MBDA and Leonardo intend to leverage their most advanced capabilities and state-of-the-art laboratories in Italy, collaboratively sharing their technological expertise in a complementary manner. This agreement will also assist in establishing a joint definition of a technical and commercial product capable of meeting end-users’ requirements. Finally, it will enable a joint promotion of the solution, while also ensuring that both companies’ national supply chains contribute to the project.
Post Image Credit: MBDA.
