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Germany Unveils Plans for Three Large Remote Missile Vessels by 2035 to Boost Naval Defense
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Germany plans to acquire three Large Remote Missile Vessels (LRMV) by 2035 as part of its updated naval strategy, Kurs Marine, Defense Express reported on September 24, citing Hartpunkt.
The concept envisions an uncrewed missile-arsenal ship designed for operations in the Atlantic, where harsh weather conditions require a larger platform than similar Dutch projects intended for the Baltic Sea. Analysts note this regional focus signals Berlin’s intent to counter Russia.
According to Defense Express, the LRMV will be equipped with vertical launch systems similar to the American Mk 41, though the number of cells has not yet been determined. The ship is expected to primarily carry surface-to-air missiles such as SM-2, SM-3, SM-6, ESSM, and RIM-7 Sea Sparrow, suggesting its main role will be air and missile defense. However, with Mk 41 launchers, it would also be capable of deploying strike weapons like the BGM-109 Tomahawk and future 3SM Tyrfing missiles.
The vessel itself is not expected to carry powerful radar systems, meaning it would rely on platforms like the future F-127 frigates to provide detection and targeting data. In practice, this would allow frigates to “carry” a large missile arsenal alongside them.
Defense Express added that Germany is planning the LRMV not only as an unmanned platform but as an optionally crewed vessel, requiring additional space for crew facilities such as a bridge, cabins, and mess halls—making the project larger and more costly.
Earlier, reports from Denmark and Norway indicated that recent drone incidents at airports in Copenhagen and Oslo may have originated from vessels in the Baltic Sea, a possibility that—though not officially confirmed—has drawn increasing attention.
