Franco-German ISL conducts first open-field electromagnetic railgun test (opex360.com)

• First successful open-field test of ISL electromagnetic railgun at Baldersheim.
• Part of the two-year 'Free-Flight Railgun' project.
• ISL aims to extend free-flight distance to 1 km with increased electrical energy.
• Railgun intended for air defense, including against hypersonic threats.
• ISL French director highlights milestone for European defense research.

"The Franco-German Institute of Saint-Louis (ISL) announced on July 9, 2026, the successful first open-field test of its electromagnetic railgun at the Baldersheim test site. The test is part of the "Free-Flight Railgun" project, launched two years ago. ISL states the railgun could offer an alternative to existing kinetic systems and counter hypersonic threats. Christian de Villemagne, ISL French director, called it an important step for European defense research."