Rheinmetall has successfully launched its FV-014 loitering munition system from the Containerized Missile Launcher, a modular multi-launcher designed for guided missiles and loitering munitions. Both the Containerized Missile Launcher and FV-014 are Rheinmetall 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 in both stationary and moving configurations. The demonstration included various simulated operational profiles and attack flights. The successful test marks another milestone in Rheinmetall’s development of loitering munition systems and its portfolio of unmanned weapons for different operational ranges.
The FV-014 was developed for highly mobile operations on the modern battlefield. It combines reconnaissance, target identification and precision strike capabilities in a single system and is designed for operational ranges of up to 100 kilometres.
The system incorporates advanced sensor technology, network connectivity and a high degree of autonomy to provide resilience against GNSS interference and support operations in demanding environments. It is designed to engage both armoured and unarmoured targets.
The FV-014 is launched 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 configuration, the launcher can accommodate up to 18 FV-014 systems.
After launch, the aircraft deploys its folding wings and transitions to aerodynamic flight. With a flight duration of up to 70 minutes, the system provides the operator with time for reconnaissance, target selection and attack decision-making.
The system is controlled through a user-friendly ground station with permanent human-in-the-loop control. This allows the operator to identify and track targets, conduct precision attacks and abort missions when necessary in response to changing operational conditions.
The FV-014 has a launch weight of approximately 22 kilograms, including a payload of around six kilograms. Its integrated HEDP (High-Explosive Dual Purpose) warhead has a penetration capability of more than 600 millimetres of solid armour steel and is designed for use against armoured and unarmoured targets as well as infrastructure.
An electrically powered propeller enables a quiet approach, while the FV-014 is designed with reduced radar and infrared signatures. In addition to precision single-target engagements, the system supports swarm operations to engage multiple targets simultaneously or saturate defence systems.
Future deployment from mobile land platforms and naval vessels is also planned.
The Containerized Missile Launcher is a flexible and modular launch platform for systems including the FV-014. Based on a standardised ISO container, it can be deployed in stationary configurations or mounted on mobile platforms such as Rheinmetall HX trucks and naval vessels.
In its 20-foot configuration, the Containerized Missile Launcher can accommodate up to 18 FV-014 systems and is compatible with existing transport, logistics and operational platforms.
The launcher can connect to command, control, communications, computers and intelligence (C4I) systems, enabling flexible launch operations by a local operator through radio or satellite communications. An integrated power supply supports long-term operation in remote areas.
The use of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components is intended to reduce life-cycle costs. The system also features an integrated “sleeper” capability for remote activation.
