Drones, robots, satellites Rheinmetall AG at XPONENTIAL Europe 2026

Source: Press release Rheinmetall AG | Translated by AI 4 min Reading Time

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Rheinmetall showcases a comprehensive portfolio of unmanned and networked technologies for modern defence and security at XPONENTIAL Europe 2026.

Rheinmetall presents advanced unmanned systems, satellite reconnaissance and teleoperation solutions at XPONENTIAL Europe 2026.(Source:  Rheinmetall AG)
Rheinmetall presents advanced unmanned systems, satellite reconnaissance and teleoperation solutions at XPONENTIAL Europe 2026.
(Source: Rheinmetall AG)

From 24 to 26 March 2026, Rheinmetall AG is exhibiting at the XPONENTIAL Europe 2026 trade fair in Düsseldorf (Germany) the event is one of Europe’s leading flagship exhibitions for autonomous systems, robotics and unmanned technologies. This year, the topic of security and defence is receiving special focus for the first time.

At the exhibition, the Düsseldorf-based technology group is presenting a broad spectrum of unmanned solutions across the land, air and space domains. These include drones, satellites, robotic systems as well as applications for teleoperated driving via 5G mobile communications. Among the innovations Rheinmetall is showcasing at XPONENTIAL 2026 are:

Loitering munition FV-014

The FV-014 is a modern loitering munition system specifically developed for the requirements of today’s and future battlefield. As a portable recce and strike drone, it combines reconnaissance and precise effect capabilities in a flexible solution, providing armed forces with decisive operational advantages at a distance. During deployment, the FV-014 can initially observe and analyse targets in order to execute a precise strike at the right moment. The operator remains involved in the decision-making process at all times. In this way, the system helps minimise collateral damage, protect friendly forces and engage critical targets quickly, in a controlled and effective manner. The FV-014 is also a key component of Rheinmetall’s reconnaissance-strike network (RSN). This includes all necessary systems for reconnaissance and combat deployment and combines coordinated effects with rapid responsiveness.

Europe’s security landscape is changing rapidly

European Defence Supply
(Source: VCG)

As defence budgets rise and EU programmes expand, civil technology providers are becoming vital contributors to Europe’s strategic autonomy. The event will act as a neutral platform for dialogue between technology suppliers, integrators, and decision-makers shaping the next generation of European defence capabilities and aims to open doors between civil industry and defence procurement, providing practical insights.

Counter-drone c-UAS Interceptor

The C-UAS Interceptor drone (RV-005) from Rheinmetall is a specialised “hard-kill” effector designed to counter small unmanned aerial vehicles and is part of the company’s comprehensive counter-drone toolbox. The system neutralises hostile drones through a targeted physical ramming manoeuvre or by means of a warhead, while modern AI technology enables precise approach even under the influence of radio interference. The RV-005 can be integrated as an effector into any command-and-control system for counter-drone operations. This allows threats to be reliably detected, classified and cost-effectively neutralised physically within a “multi layer defence”. Thanks to these capabilities, the drone is ideally suited for protecting critical infrastructure and sensitive airspace, such as airports or major events.

SAR satellites (Synthetic Aperture Radar)

SAR satellites (Synthetic Aperture Radar) are advanced reconnaissance systems that deliver high-resolution radar images of the Earth’s surface regardless of time of day or weather conditions. Using active radar signals, they provide detailed information even in dense cloud, fog, smoke or complete darkness. For modern armed forces, this data forms an essential basis for situational awareness, target acquisition and real-time surveillance. Through the joint venture Rheinmetall ICEYE Space Solutions, a sovereign German satellite constellation is being established from Neuss on the Lower Rhine, ensuring a secure and controlled flow of information. Space-based reconnaissance is regarded as a key building block for the digital transformation of defence and national security.

Collaborative robot YARO Cobot

The YARO Cobot was developed for environments where other robots fail. With advanced AI, a robust design and adaptable options, it is the ideal tool for complex tasks under the harshest conditions. The hard-coated aluminium frame ensures resistance to salt, fog and corrosion in demanding outdoor environments. Certified to IP67 and IP69, it is fully dustproof and waterproof for reliable operation in wet and dusty conditions. “Force control” enables precise handling for delicate tasks, even under extreme conditions. Vibration damping and corresponding sensors ensure precision in environments with strong vibrations. Customised sensor heads adapt the YARO Cobot for tasks such as chemical detection or spatial measurements. The robot operates reliably at temperatures from -20 °C to 50 °C (approx. -68°F to 122°F).

Driver station and control centre for teleoperation

With its exhibit, Rheinmetall subsidiary MIRA GmbH demonstrates key elements of its teleoperation solution for use in public road traffic. At the centre is the driver station, from which a vehicle can be teleoperated and controlled in real time. The workstation is designed so that all driving-relevant vehicle functions can be operated and controlled remotely. Via the screens, the “remote driver” receives high-resolution video streams from the vehicle’s cameras in order to continuously monitor traffic conditions and safely perform driving tasks. In addition, MIRA is presenting the control centre at the exhibition as the central control and management unit of the overall system. This is where all information relevant to operations converges, where driving missions are monitored and coordinated, and where driving tasks are assigned to the respective control station. The interaction between control centre and driver station illustrates how teleoperated vehicles can be controlled efficiently, safely and in a scalable manner.

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Rheinmetall—driving the digital transformation of armed forces

At XPONENTIAL, Rheinmetall positions itself as a leading international systems provider driving the digital transformation of armed forces as well as innovative mobility solutions for civilian applications. In doing so, the company underlines its ambition to establish unmanned technologies as a central element of modern defence and to ensure information superiority on the battlefield. As a global player, the group is presenting forward-looking solutions for networked operations over the next decade during the exhibition. In this way, Rheinmetall is making a decisive contribution to national and international security in an ever-changing world. Visitors to XPONENTIAL Europe 2026 can learn more about Rheinmetall’s extensive portfolio at stand C25 in hall 1.