Swiss Army is getting VarioRay LLM Laser Light Module

As part of the 2019 armament program, the Swiss Army is procuring "VarioRay LLM" laser light modules from Rheinmetall. In December 2019, a corresponding contract was signed with Armasuisse. The delivery of 9,640 units is set to begin in May 2020 and be completed by the end of 2022. The order is valued in the lower double-digit million range. It also includes accessories, spare parts, and training support. The general contractor for the project is Rheinmetall Air Defence AG, with the manufacturer being Rheinmetall Soldier Electronics GmbH.

The laser light modules, known in Swiss military jargon as LLM 19, are mounted on soldiers' assault rifles for target acquisition, identification, and marking. The approximately 240 gram VarioRay LLM can be mounted on any assault rifle with a MIL-STD 1913 rail and operated using a trigger cable. Together with the night vision and thermal imaging devices also acquired as part of the 2019 armament procurement program, it will enable Swiss troops to conduct their missions around the clock and in all weather conditions. HERE is the datasheet for the VarioRay LLM.

The piece at the contract signing Armasuisse - Rheinmetall Air Defence: VarioRay Laser Light Module for the Swiss Army.

The VarioRay LLM is also part of the Bundeswehr's IdZ-ES (System-Extended System). The British Army, which refers to it as Laser Light Module MK3, also uses it. The Swiss Army already has target lasers from Rheinmetall in use. In 1996, Rheinmetall delivered the REM096 laser marker to the Swiss Army. With the recent order, Rheinmetall has succeeded in maintaining the Swiss Army as an important customer for its laser light technology.

Rheinmetall offers a comprehensive portfolio of infantry equipment, including numerous target and illumination modules designed to enhance the tactical effectiveness of small arms. One of the latest products is the VTAL (Variable Tactical Aiming Laser) module - most recently procured by the German KSK. This target and illumination module is compatible with all common night vision devices and can be paired with the separate modular weapon lamp Lumenator, also from Rheinmetall. Another top product from Rheinmetall is Tac-Ray Ballistic, a rangefinder/ballistics computer for snipers. HERE is the datasheet for the VTAL module.

ARMASUISSE on the internet: www.ar.admin.ch

Rheinmetall on the internet: www.rheinmetall-defence.com