Heads-up guys:
Laser-Light Module: Rheinmetall to Deliver LLM VarioRay for the Bundeswehr’s New Service Rifle — Contract Value in the Hundreds of Millions of Euros
Over the next seven years, Rheinmetall is set to deliver thousands of LLM VarioRay laser-light modules for the Bundeswehr’s new G95 (HK416A8) service rifle. The contract is valued at several hundred million euros.
Background
The Bundeswehr has commissioned Rheinmetall to supply laser-light modules for the German armed forces. After the Budget Committee of the German Bundestag released the required funds on December 3, 2025, the first binding call-off order has now been placed under the framework agreement signed in June 2021. This means laser-light modules of the “LLM VarioRay” type are scheduled for delivery over the next seven years.
In addition, there is an option to call off additional LLM VR units, which could also be delivered within the agreed time period. This firm call-off results in incoming orders for Rheinmetall totaling several hundred million euros net. The devices are manufactured by Rheinmetall Soldier Electronics in Stockach on Lake Constance (Bodensee). It is the largest order intake in the history of this Rheinmetall subsidiary.
What the LLM VarioRay Is
The Rheinmetall LLM VarioRay belongs to the newest generation of laser-light modules. These systems are intended primarily for use on small arms by infantry and dismounted forces, supporting the ability to detect, identify, and mark targets.
Weighing around 250 grams including its mount, the LLM VarioRay can be fitted to virtually any assault rifle via a MIL-STD-1913 rail / STANAG 4694 interface and can be operated using a remote trigger cable. It features:
- a high-output white-light LED
- a red-light laser marker
- an infrared (IR) laser marker
- an electrically focusable IR illuminator
The light source can be selected and adjusted continuously via a rotary switch. The device also includes a fully integrated, factory-aligned laser block, enabling straightforward adjustment and alignment to the optic and weapon.
Used together with night vision and thermal imaging devices, this enables German forces to carry out missions across the full operational spectrum—day or night, in any weather.
Wider Use and System Integration
The LLM VarioRay product family is also part of Germany’s soldier system “Infanterist der Zukunft – Erweitertes System (IdZ-ES)”. Internationally, it is fielded as the Laser Light Module MK3 in the British Army, and as Laser-Licht-Modul 19 in the Swiss Armed Forces.
Rheinmetall’s Broader Infantry Portfolio
Rheinmetall offers a broad portfolio of infantry equipment, including various targeting and illumination modules designed to increase the tactical effectiveness of modern small arms. One example is the LM-VTAL (“Laser Module – Variable Tactical Aiming Laser”), which has already been in use with Bundeswehr special forces for several years.
Web >> www.rheinmetall.com
