13 August 2026 – Rheinmetall has successfully launched its FV-014 loitering munition system from the Containerized Missile Launcher, a modular multi launcher for guided missiles and loitering munitions. Both the Containerized Missile Launcher and the FV-014 loitering munition system are in-house developments. The product demonstration took place in July 2026 at the National Test Centre for Unmanned Aerial Systems at the German Aerospace Centre in Cochstedt, Saxony-Anhalt.
As part of a customer demonstration, the FV-014 was launched from a Rheinmetall HX truck, both from a stationary position and whilst moving. During the demonstration, the system carried out various simulated operational profiles and attack flights. This successful test underlines Rheinmetall’s expertise in the field of modern loitering munition systems and marks another important milestone in the expansion of its portfolio of unmanned weapons for various ranges.
The FV-014 was developed for highly mobile operations on the modern battlefield. It combines reconnaissance, target identification and precision strike capabilities within a single system and is designed for operational ranges of up to 100 kilometres. State-of-the-art sensor technology, network capability and strong resilience to GNSS interference through a high degree of autonomy enable deployment even in demanding operational scenarios. The system is suitable for engaging both armoured and unarmoured targets.
Launching takes place from a transport and launch container using a booster. These launch containers can be integrated into the Containerized Missile Launcher on a modular basis. Depending on the selected container model, this launcher can accommodate up to 18 FV-014. After ejection, the aircraft unfolds its folding wings and transitions to aerodynamic flight. With a flight duration of up to 70 minutes, the operator has sufficient time for reconnaissance, target selection and decision making for the attack.
The system is controlled via a user-friendly ground station with permanent human-in-the-loop control. This enables the operator to identify and track targets, launch precise attacks and abort the mission, if necessary in order to respond to changing operational conditions.
The FV-014 is a modern loitering munition system with a launch weight of around 22 kilograms, including a payload of approximately six kilograms. The integrated HEDP (High-Explosive Dual Purpose) warhead has a penetration capacity of more than 600 millimetres of solid armour steel and is equally effective against armoured and unarmoured targets, as well as infrastructure.
An electrically powered propeller guarantees a quiet approach. Furthermore, the FV-014 is designed for a reduced radar and infrared signature. In addition to precise single strikes, the system supports swarm operations to simultaneously engage multiple targets or to ‘saturate’ by deliberately overstraining enemy defence systems. Future deployment from mobile land vehicle platforms and seagoing units is planned.
The Containerized Missile Launcher is a highly flexible, modular designed launch platform, amongst other things, for the FV-014 loitering munition system. It is based on a standardised ISO container of any size. It can be deployed both in a stationary configuration and on mobile platforms, such as a Rheinmetall HX truck, as well as on naval vessels. In the 20-foot configuration, a Containerized Missile Launcher can accommodate up to 18 FV-014 and is fully compatible with existing transport, logistics and operational platforms.
Connection to command, control, communications, computers and intelligence (C4I) systems enables flexible launch by a local operator, via radio link or satellite communication. An integrated power supply ensures reliable long-term operation, even in remote operational areas. The consistent use of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components reduces life-cycle costs. Furthermore, the system features an integrated ‘sleeper’ capability for remote activation.
Photo courtesy Rheinmetall
