Rheinmetall Introduces LLM-VarioRay Laser Light Module for German Armed Forces

Intended primarily for small arms carried by infantry and other dismounted operating combat forces, laser light modules are used for detecting, identifying and marking targets. With its LLM-VarioRay product family, Rheinmetall offers a powerful portfolio in this field. In recent years, the LLM-VarioRay has established itself with many armed forces. Among other things, the LLM-VarioRay product family has long form part of the German soldier system “Future Soldier – Expanded System” (IdZ-ES). It is also in service with the British Army, which calls it the Laser Light Module MK3, and with the Swiss Army, where it is known as the Laser-Licht-Modul 19.

In summer 2021 the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) has selected Rheinmetall to supply laser light modules for the German armed forces. A corresponding framework contract has now been signed, which envisages delivery of up to 130,000 laser light modules. To begin with, 2,460 devices worth a total of €3 million will be delivered. For Rheinmetall, the framework contract represents up to €178 million in potential sales. This is the largest order for laser light modules ever booked by the device’s maker, Rheinmetall Soldier Electronics of Stockach, Germany. The framework contract is initially set to run for seven years.

Weighing around 250 grams including the bracket, the LLM-VarioRay Laser Light Module can be mounted on any assault rifle with a MIL-STD 1913 rail/STANAG 4694 and operated via a trigger cable. It features a powerful white lamp, a red-light laser marker, an infrared laser marker and an electrically focusable infrared illuminator. The light source can be selected with a rotary switch and is infinitely adjustable. The device has a fully integrated, factory-aligned laser block, enabling easy adjustment and alignment of the aiming device and weapon. Together with night observation and thermal imaging devices, it lets German troops perform a full range of operational missions around the clock and in all weathers.

Because the devices can be mounted via a standard inferface onto all assault rifles, submachine guns, machine guns and sniper rifles currently in the Bundeswehr inventory, they will greatly improve the ability of German troops to fight at night. Delivery will begin this year. The Bundeswehr will initially take delivery of 360 devices earmarked for integrated verification management. These will be followed by the remaining 2,100 laser light modules now on order.

Rheinmetall offers an extensive portfolio of infantry equipment, including a variety of aiming and illumination modules. These were developed in order to enhance the tactical effectiveness of modern small arms. One of these products is the LM-VTAL. Standing for “Laser Module – Variable Tactical Aiming Laser”, it is used by Bundeswehr special operators. Rheinmetall’s aiming and illumination devices are compatible with all standard night observation devices and can be coupled with the “TL-MissionLight”, a separate modular weapon lamp also made by Rheinmetall. Another top-of-the-line Rheinmetall product is the “FCS-TacRay Ballistic”, a rangefinder/ballistic computer for snipers and machine gunners.

Rheinmetall AG is a German automotive and arms manufacturer, headquartered in Düsseldorf, Germany. Its shares are traded on the Frankfurt stock exchange. As an integrated technology group with about 25,000 employees worldwide, the listed Rheinmetall AG stands for a strong, internationally successful company that operates in various markets with an innovative range of products and services. As a renowned development partner and direct supplier to the global automotive industry and a leading international systems provider for security technology, Rheinmetall draws on its high level of expertise in its basic technologies to address long-term megatrends, identify viable new markets with high growth potential and develop innovative solutions for a safe and liveable future. The focus on sustainability is an integral part of Rheinmetall’s strategy. The company aims to achieve CO2 neutrality by 2035.