Rheinmetall’s MASS Nova Unleashes 3DDS Drone Swarm for Next-Gen Naval Defense

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At the prestigious DSEI 2025 exhibition in London, Rheinmetall unveiled its latest advancement in naval defense technology: the MASS nova, a next-generation Multi Ammunition Softkill System. This innovative system marks a significant leap forward in electronic countermeasures, offering enhanced protection against modern guided threats. Designed to safeguard naval vessels from anti-ship missiles, MASS nova introduces a new paradigm in maritime survivability.

MASS nova. Photo: Rheinmetall

One of the most groundbreaking features of MASS nova is its integration of the 3DDS, or 3D Decoy Swarm. This swarm consists of multiple drones capable of generating radar signatures that closely mimic the profile of actual ships. By creating a convincing three-dimensional radar illusion, these drones effectively deceive enemy tracking systems and redirect incoming threats away from the real vessel.

Unlike traditional decoy systems, the 3DDS drones operate independently of the host ship, allowing them to maneuver freely and simulate the ship’s movements with remarkable accuracy. This autonomous behavior enhances the realism of the decoy swarm, making it significantly harder for adversaries to distinguish between the decoys and the actual target. The result is a sophisticated layer of deception that adds depth to the ship’s defensive capabilities.

To support the deployment of these advanced decoys, MASS nova features a newly designed launcher system with increased capacity and speed. The launcher is capable of deploying 40 standard 81mm decoy rounds along with an additional four specialized rounds, enabling rapid saturation of the surrounding area with countermeasures. This swift and voluminous deployment ensures that the ship can respond immediately to multiple simultaneous threats.

The enhanced launcher system not only improves reaction time but also expands the tactical options available to naval commanders. With a greater number of decoys at their disposal, operators can create complex patterns of interference that confuse and overwhelm enemy sensors. This flexibility is crucial in modern naval engagements, where threats can emerge from multiple vectors and evolve rapidly.

MASS nova is engineered for versatility, allowing it to be installed on a wide range of naval platforms. Whether integrated into existing command and weapon systems or deployed as a standalone unit, the system adapts seamlessly to different operational environments. This modularity ensures that both legacy ships and new builds can benefit from the latest in softkill technology without extensive retrofitting.

In addition to its compatibility, MASS nova supports decoy munitions with larger payloads and extended range. These upgraded rounds can be placed with greater precision, increasing the likelihood of successfully diverting incoming missiles. The improved reach and accuracy of the decoys contribute to a more robust defensive envelope around the vessel.

The system’s ability to deploy decoys at longer distances also enables strategic placement that maximizes the effectiveness of the 3DDS swarm. By positioning the drones and munitions in optimal locations, operators can create a layered defense that engages threats before they reach critical proximity. This proactive approach enhances the survivability of the ship and its crew in high-risk scenarios.

Rheinmetall’s emphasis on rapid deployment and autonomous maneuvering reflects a broader trend in defense technology toward intelligent, adaptive systems. MASS nova embodies this shift by combining traditional countermeasure principles with cutting-edge drone capabilities. The fusion of these elements results in a system that is not only reactive but also anticipatory in its defensive posture.

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