Image: Rheinmetall ©
Rheinmetall has successfully launched its FV-014 loitering munition from a Containerized Missile Launcher, marking a fresh milestone in its unmanned weapons portfolio. The demonstration took place in July 2026 at the National Test Centre for Unmanned Aerial Systems in Cochstedt, Saxony-Anhalt, according to a Rheinmetall press statement.
Demonstration Details
Engineers launched the FV-014 from a Rheinmetall HX truck, both stationary and moving. The munition then flew simulated operational profiles and attack runs. Rheinmetall developed both the launcher and the loitering munition in-house, the company noted.
System Capabilities
The FV-014 combines reconnaissance, target identification and precision strike in one platform. It offers a range of up to 100 kilometres and resists GNSS interference through a high degree of autonomy. Weighing around 22 kilograms, the munition carries a six-kilogram HEDP warhead capable of penetrating over 600 millimetres of armour steel. It strikes armoured and unarmoured targets alike, plus infrastructure.
An electric propeller keeps the approach quiet, while reduced radar and infrared signatures aid survivability. Operators retain human-in-the-loop control throughout each mission, allowing them to track targets or abort strikes as conditions change. Flight endurance reaches 70 minutes, giving crews time for careful target selection.
Modular Launch Platform
The Containerized Missile Launcher uses a standard ISO container and deploys from land vehicles, naval vessels or fixed positions. A 20-foot configuration holds up to 18 FV-014 rounds. The system links to C4I networks and supports swarm attacks that can saturate enemy defences. Rheinmetall plans to expand deployment to mobile land platforms and seagoing units.
