The Bundeswehr has commissioned Rheinmetall to supply laser light modules for the German armed forces. A corresponding framework agreement has now been signed, which will cover a total quantity of up to 130,000 laser light modules.
Initially, 2,460 devices worth around three million euros are to be delivered as an introduction. The framework agreement represents a potential order volume of up to 178 million euros for Rheinmetall. This is the largest order in the field of laser light modules ever booked by the manufacturer of the devices, Rheinmetall Soldier Electronics from Stockach on Lake Constance. The framework agreement will initially run for seven years. As the devices can be used via standardized interfaces on all assault rifles, submachine guns, machine guns and sniper rifles currently used by the Bundeswehr, this will greatly increase the troops’ night combat capability. Delivery will begin this year. Initially, the Bundeswehr will receive 360 devices for integrated detection. This will be followed by a further 2,100 laser light modules that have already been firmly ordered. The selected device is a version of Rheinmetall’s latest-generation LLM-VarioRay laser light module. The laser light modules are primarily used on the hand weapons of infantry and dismounted forces and are used to detect, identify and mark targets.
The LLM-VarioRay, which weighs around 250 grams with the mount, can be used on any assault rifle via a MIL-STD 1913 rail/ STANAG 4694 and can be operated via a trigger cable. It has a powerful white light lamp, a red light laser marker, an infrared laser marker and an electrically focusable infrared illuminator. The light source can be continuously selected and regulated using a rotary switch. The device has a fully integrated, factory-aligned laser block. This laser block enables simple adjustment and alignment to the sight and weapon. Together with night vision and thermal imaging devices, the German armed forces can thus fulfill their missions across the entire operational spectrum at any time of day or night and in any weather. The LLM-VarioRay product family is also part of the German soldier system “Infanterist der Zukunft – Erweitertes System (IdZ-ES)” and is also used by the British Army as the Laser Light Module MK3 or by the Swiss Army as Laser Light Module 19. Rheinmetall offers a comprehensive portfolio of infantry equipment, including various targeting and illumination modules. These were developed to increase the tactical effectiveness of modern small arms. Another product is the LM-VTAL (“Laser Module – Variable Tactical Aiming Laser”), which is used by the special forces of the German Armed Forces. Rheinmetall’s aiming and illumination modules are compatible with all standard night vision devices and can be coupled with the separate modular Rheinmetall “TL-MissionLight” weapon lamp. Another top product from Rheinmetall is the “FCS-TacRay Ballistic” rangefinder/ballistics computer for snipers and machine gunners.
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