DIMDEX 2018: Regulations fail to match pace of HEL gun development
Regulations determining the implementation and use of laser weapons are failing to keep pace with the development of such technologies, according to Rheinmetall Defence.
Showcasing its High Energy Laser (HEL) gun at the DIMDEX naval exhibition in Doha, officials from Rheinmetall Defence said that while the current programme was at TRL 6, prototypes could be developed in just ‘a couple of years’.
The system completed testing and evaluation with the German MoD several years ago, with the German Navy looking at the 2024-25 timeframe for system adoption. This gap between development and potential adoption is due in part to the
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
AUKUS plan B? Japan’s submarines stopgap gains traction
Australia’s Collins-class life of type extension has revived debate over whether Canberra needs a contingency plan as risks to every stage of the AUKUS pathway mount. With Japan newly open to exports, the case for a diesel-electric stopgap is gaining traction.
-
Seoul’s SSN programme launch raises questions on fuel, tech and build location
Seoul has unveiled its “Jangbogo-N Project” to develop domestically built, nuclear-propelled attack submarines in close coordination with Washington, marking an escalation of the Republic of Korea’s deterrence posture against Pyongyang’s undersea nuclear capabilities.
-
Tokyo’s naval export drive gains strategic depth in Southeast Asia
Indonesia’s consideration of Mogami-class frigates points to a widening export opportunity for Tokyo across Southeast Asia and raises the prospect of the Mogami becoming the region’s default mid-tier surface combatant.