The German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) have placed an order with Rheinmetall for laser light modules (LLMs) for their new assault rifle, following authorisation from the German Bundestag’s Budget Committee.
This marks the first definitive call-off under a framework agreement established in June 2021. The order entails the supply of LLM-VarioRay Laser-Light-Modules over a period of seven years, with an option to purchase additional units within this timeframe.
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This contract represents several hundred million Euros in net order intake for Rheinmetall. Furthermore, the contract is the largest in the history of its subsidiary, Rheinmetall Soldier Electronics, based in Stockach at Lake Constance, Germany.
Rheinmetall Soldier Electronics CEO Erkan Yildirim said: “The LLM-VarioRay is one of our most versatile devices. The largest order in our company’s history is an incentive for us to continue delivering cutting-edge technology.
“Provided that the customer places a corresponding call-off, we could also deliver the additional optional quantity within the agreed period of seven years. This would provide both the Bundeswehr and us at Rheinmetall with planning security”.
The LLM-VarioRay Laser-Light-Modules are utilised primarily on firearms by infantry and dismounted forces to detect, identify, and mark targets.
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By GlobalDataWeighing approximately 250g including its mount, the device can be affixed to any assault rifle using a MIL-STD 1913 rail/STANAG 4694 and operated via a trigger cable. It includes features such as a powerful white light LED, a red-light laser marker, an infrared laser marker, and an electrically focusable infrared illuminator.
With a rotary switch, users can select and adjust the light source seamlessly. The system incorporates a fully integrated and factory-aligned laser block that simplifies visor and weapon alignment, allowing mission fulfilment across various operational spectra regardless of time or weather conditions.
The LLM-VarioRay is part of Germany’s ‘Future Soldier – Extended System (IdZ-ES)’ and is also employed by the British Army as the Laser-Light-Module MK3 and by the Swiss Army as the Laser-Light-Module 19.
Rheinmetall has been one of the major providers of laser light modules for over two decades.
The LLM-VarioRay follows its predecessor, the LLM-01, which has sold over 150,000 units and has become a NATO standard since 2013. These modules, which enhance night and low-light combat capabilities, include an eye-safe training mode for force-on-force exercises.
The laser output power is set by colour-coded trigger cables patented by RSE.
Rheinmetall’s range of infantry equipment extends beyond this with various targeting and illumination modules designed to increase the tactical effectiveness of modern weaponry. The company’s Laser Module – Variable Tactical Aiming Laser (LM-VTAL) has been operational for several years within Bundeswehr’s special forces.
