Military cooperation between Ukraine and Germany is intensifying around laser weapons. Prototypes of 1,500 watts are being tested, promising increased defense against drones. A technological alliance with double benefits?
The war in Ukraine continues. And even though a ceasefire has been declared for the Orthodox Easter celebration this Saturday and Sunday, it doesn’t stop both sides from working behind the scenes.
For Ukraine, the backstage involves relations with Germany. Last Friday, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense released a statement about a phone conversation between Mykhailo Fedorov and his German counterpart Boris Pistorius. During the conversation, the defense ministers prepared for the Ramstein meeting on April 15th, where the implementation of the war plan to compel Russia to peace will be discussed. Topics include presenting priority cooperation areas to partners, especially in strengthening aerial defense, developing unmanned systems, and exchanging data and technologies. Ukrainians will share their solutions and expertise on dealing with Shahed drones in return.
Ukraine and Germany are also working together on common projects related to aerial defense, drone funding, and technological solutions. This includes laser weapons. The statement mentions the discussion of prospects for cooperation in innovative laser weapons.
According to the specialized website Militarnyi, Ukrainians are already working on a few prototypes, including the “SLIM BEAM laser system with a power of 1,500 watts, with an effective range for drone destruction between 20 and 800 meters.” Meanwhile, in Germany, trials continue for a laser weapon “mounted on containerized platforms.” In October, the laser was removed from the German navy frigate Sachsen and transferred to the Laser Competence Center of the Technical Center for Weapons and Ammunition (WTD 91) in Meppen for further testing. Several hundred shots have already been performed, demonstrating high reaction speed and precision in fighting drones, significantly increasing the effectiveness of neutralizing small targets.
The laser is a solution that interests Ukraine, facing difficulties in arms supply. Germany might use the Ukrainian “terrain” to test its weapon in real conditions. Could this lead to another exchange of best practices?
Context: – Ukraine and Germany are collaborating on military technology, with a focus on laser weapons to enhance defense capabilities against drones. – The two countries are sharing expertise and testing prototypes to improve their military capabilities.
Fact Check: – Ramstein meeting refers to a diplomatic meeting between defense ministers to discuss strategies to bring peace in the region. – Shahed drones are Iranian-made unmanned aerial vehicles.
