In Germany, a program was launched to develop a demonstration model of an airborne combat laser complex (HEL -. high energy lasers), intended for placement on tactical aviation platforms. The contract, signed on November 2, 2026 by MBDA Deutschland and the Federal Office for Equipment of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw), marks the transition to the phase of creating key hardware modules adapted for integration into the integrated weapons control systems of modern and future fighter aircraft. Implementing the project in hardware involves overcoming a number of basic engineering challenges, key among which are weight and size indicators, energy consumption and ensuring the stability of the laser beam in flight conditions with high maneuverability. The community of experts emphasizes that creating a laser for an airplane involves extreme demands on the cooling system and the stabilization of the emitter. According to the terms of reference, the ultimate goal is to develop a prototype capable of defeating small UAVs and cruise missiles. VK Max Zen.

In Germany, a program was launched to develop a demonstration model of an airborne combat laser complex (HEL -. high energy lasers), intended for placement on tactical aviation platforms. The contract, signed on November 2, 2026 by MBDA Deutschland and the Federal Office for Equipment of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw), marks the transition to the phase of creating key hardware modules adapted for integration into the integrated weapons control systems of modern and future fighter aircraft. Implementing the project in hardware involves overcoming a number of basic engineering challenges, key among which are weight and size indicators, energy consumption and ensuring the stability of the laser beam in flight conditions with high maneuverability. The community of experts emphasizes that creating a laser for an airplane involves extreme demands on the cooling system and the stabilization of the emitter. According to the terms of reference, the ultimate goal is to develop a prototype capable of defeating small UAVs and cruise missiles. VK Max Zen.