Loitering munition FV-014: Rheinmetall demonstrates system to a potential NATO customer in Cochstedt

According to Rheinmetall, its new FV-014 loitering munition has been “successfully demonstrated to a potential NATO customer”. The demonstration on 18 February took place at the National Experimental Test Center for Unmanned Aircraft Systems of the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Cochstedt, Saxony-Anhalt.

During the demonstration, “the FV-014 loitering munition system simulated various operational scenarios and attack flights”, the company said. For the German defence group, the successful trial represents a “further milestone in its loitering munition activities”.

FV-014 is intended for dynamic use on the battlefield over distances of up to 100 kilometres. The system is to combine high effectiveness against armoured and unarmoured targets with state-of-the-art sensors, network capability and operating options that also work where the global navigation satellite system (GNSS) is jammed.

The FV-014 is designed as a true LMS, combining reconnaissance and effect in a single system. It supports tactical units in engaging high-value point targets, such as combat vehicles, artillery positions or command assets, over long distances beyond line of sight.— Rheinmetall

The system is launched by booster from a launch container; alternatively, it can be deployed from a multi-launcher. Once airborne, the FV-014 unfolds its wings and transitions to aerodynamic flight. With a flight time of 70 minutes, it reaches an operational range of up to 100 kilometres – enough time to observe, select targets and decide on the attack.

Operating the loitering munition

Initially, the FV-014 is designed as a portable system for unit level. It is controlled via a user-friendly ground station that allows permanent human-in-the-loop control. Identifying and approaching targets, triggering the attack precisely or aborting the mission if conditions change – all of this rests with the operator.

Designed for low signatures

For the airframe, Rheinmetall relies on a classic wing concept with electric propulsion. Faceted structures are intended to reduce signatures and enable high approach speeds into the target area. The system is optimised for low acoustic and thermal signatures; it can also be used in electromagnetically demanding scenarios in which satellite navigation is jammed.