Italian Navy launches laser weapon development for current and upcoming ships.

On December 5, 2024, MBDA Italia and Leonardo formalized a partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs) for naval applications. This collaboration addresses the Italian Navy's interest in C-UAV (counter-unmanned aerial vehicle) systems designed to intercept and neutralize threats posed by nano- and micro-drones of various compositions. The systems will operate using two power classes, tailored to the type of threat encountered, and will be installed on both existing and new-generation vessels.
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Naval laser weapons are being developed and deployed globally due to their precision and cost-efficiency in countering threats such as drones and missiles, as exemplified by the USS Preble equipped with the HELIOS laser system. (Picture source: US DoD)

The MoU assigns MBDA the role of Design Authority for a "light" Fire Unit, intended for deployment on existing naval vessels with laser systems requiring lower energy absorption. Leonardo will act as the Design Authority for a "high-end" Fire Unit designed for new-generation naval platforms. MBDA will focus on high-power laser beam generation, while Leonardo will develop systems for laser beam direction and target aiming. The project will leverage both companies' advanced facilities in Italy, emphasizing collaboration and complementary technological capabilities.

The "light" Fire Units, requiring lower energy absorption, could be integrated into current ships, such as the Bergamini-class FREMM frigates and the Multipurpose Offshore Patrol Vessels (PPA). Conversely, the "high-end" Fire Units could be designed for forthcoming naval platforms, including the FREMM EVO frigates and the next-generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs), which are currently under development. This strategic approach ensures that both current and future operational needs are met, enhancing the Italian Navy's defensive capabilities against emerging threats.

Initially, the Fire Units will be integrated into naval combat systems, with the possibility of future adaptation for land use. This initiative aligns with Italy's Defense Planning Document (DPP) for 2024–2026, which outlines the acquisition of C-UAV systems classified as "conventional and direct energy." The program is designated as a national initiative in the DPP and allocated an initial budget of €80 million over six years, with a total projected cost of €194 million. However, specific details of the MoU do not explicitly confirm a direct link to this program.

This project marks a new focus for Italy's defense industry, which has not previously been involved in the development of directed energy weapon systems. The initiative is also part of a broader effort by MBDA to advance laser technology, building on existing partnerships and projects. In Germany, MBDA has tested a laser demonstrator with Rheinmetall, incorporating a multistage tracker and effector system to bundle multiple laser sources into a single beam. In the United Kingdom, MBDA, Leonardo UK, and QinetiQ are collaborating on the DragonFire system, which has demonstrated high-power laser capability against aerial targets. This system has been tested successfully, achieving notable precision.

MBDA has further expanded its expertise in laser technology through its stake in CILAS, a French company specializing in military laser systems. CILAS has developed the HELMA-P system, which completed its initial testing during the summer of 2024. These developments have bolstered MBDA's growing portfolio of directed energy weapon technologies.

The systems under development in Italy will feature dual power classes, enabling them to address various types of drone threats effectively. MBDA's "light" Fire Unit will be optimized for existing ships, while Leonardo's "high-end" Fire Unit will equip future naval platforms. This division ensures tailored solutions for both current and future operational needs. Both companies will share their technical knowledge, and national supply chains will contribute to the project. The MoU lays the foundation for defining technical and commercial solutions to meet customer requirements. It also establishes a framework for the joint promotion of the resulting products. The agreement reflects a broader trend in defense technology development, emphasizing directed energy weapons as a cost-effective solution for neutralizing threats.

Naval laser weapons are being developed and deployed globally due to their precision and cost-efficiency in countering threats such as drones and missiles. The United States has installed the HELIOS laser system on the USS Preble to enhance defense capabilities in the Pacific. China has integrated a laser weapon system into its Type 071 amphibious transport dock and is exploring the installation of laser weapons on its submarines. The United Kingdom plans to deploy the DragonFire laser on Royal Navy warships by 2027 to counter aerial and missile threats. South Korea, France and Italy are similarly investing in directed energy technologies to strengthen naval defense systems. These efforts highlight a global trend among major military powers to incorporate laser-based systems into naval operations to address modern security challenges.