ILA 2026: MBDA Germany launches new laser- and missile-armed ground-based C-UAS solution

Seen at the ILA Berlin Airshow 2026, MBDA Germany's new Combined DefendAir DEWS-L features a laser and missiles for a multi-layered C-UAS solution. (Janes/Gareth Jennings)

MBDA Germany launched a new laser- and missile-armed version of its Combined DefendAir Directed Energy Weapon System – Laser (DEWS-L) ground-based counter unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) solution at the ILA Berlin Airshow running from 10 to 14 June 2026.

Mounted on a 10 ft x 10 ft (3.05 m x 3.05 m) ISO interface, the Combined DefendAir DEWS-L features a laser with a theoretically unlimited number of shot against close-in targets, as well as 24 DefendAir missiles for more extended-range targets.

“For the first time ever, MBDA Germany is displaying a comprehensive anti-drone solution, centred on the DefendAir guided missile and a high-energy laser weapon integrated on an anti-drone platform,” the company said. “MBDA's new anti-drone system addresses the rapidly growing challenge of small, fast, and low-cost unmanned aerial threats, combining the kinetic interceptor DefendAir with a high-energy laser effector providing overlapping engagement envelopes.”

In announcing the new system, Guido Brendler, Senior Vice President Sales and Business Development at MBDA Germany, said that its development has been driven by an increasing customer demand for a cost-effective C-UAS solution, and that a laser in place of a conventional gun offers a far more effective capability package when combined with the DefendAir missile that it also carries. “If there is more than one drone then you need more than one solution,” Brendler said of the Combined DefendAir DEWS-L's layered C-UAS capabilities.