Germany could receive new cruise missile
Germany could soon enhance its defense capabilities with a new generation cruise missile known as RCM² (Remote Carrier Multidomain Multirole Effector), developed by MBDA Deutschland.
The company recently released a conceptual illustration of the missile, showcasing its potential applications for German forces across multiple domains.
According to MBDA Deutschland, the RCM² is intended to complement the existing TAURUS missile, providing enhanced capabilities for military units. “Alongside TAURUS, RCM² will strengthen the troops in the future. One special feature: RCM² will be launched from fighter and transport aircraft, frigates, and land vehicles alike,” MBDA explained.
Developed in Germany, RCM² is designed to be a flexible asset capable of operating across a wide range of platforms and mission types. It offers both short and long-range engagement capabilities, with the ability to loiter over target areas and engage in environments where GPS may be unavailable. This makes it an ideal solution for contested battlespaces where traditional targeting methods may be disrupted.
Neues Konzept von MBDA Deutschland. Neben #TAURUS soll zukünftig RCM² die Truppe verstärken.
Eine Besonderheit: RCM² wird sowohl von Kampf- und Transportflugzeugen als auch von Fregatten und Landfahrzeugen verschossen werden können. pic.twitter.com/8nSK83eGHi
RCM² represents a new class of aerial vectors, combining characteristics of a loitering munition with advanced multi-role capabilities. It is guided by GPS and can operate as part of a swarm, with interactive guidance that allows any operator integrated into the network to assume control if needed. The flexible launch platform and network-based control make RCM² applicable across all branches of the armed forces, including land, sea, and air.
The RCM² is powered by a turbojet engine, providing sufficient thrust for a range of approximately 500 kilometers. Weighing around 340 kilograms, the missile can be configured with various payload options, making it adaptable to specific mission needs. Payload options include an explosive warhead for use as a loitering munition, electronic warfare payloads with jamming capabilities, and sensors for intelligence gathering.
MBDA’s design also allows for different payloads to be combined within a single mission, enhancing the missile’s versatility. The ability to mix payloads provides commanders with increased flexibility in adapting to changing mission requirements and responding to emerging threats.
RCM² will also be integrated into the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), a next-generation fighter jet project aimed at developing advanced air combat capabilities for Europe. This missile system, with its versatile design and advanced capabilities, is expected to play a central role in the FCAS program, enhancing Germany’s air and missile strike capabilities in the years to come.