The European X-Ray Free-Electron Laser (XFEL) Facility will start commissioning and operation in 2016 in Hamburg, Germany. The majority of the planned experiments during operation of the facility will utilize ultrafast optical lasers for pump-probe-type and other measurements. Therefore, few-cycle, mJ-level pulses at MHz repetition rates are desired with the emission synchronized to the XFEL's burst pattern. Lacking commercial technology to match the requirements, we engaged in a development project in order to have lasers ready in time for user-operation. I will give an overview of the European XFEL project and its scope, followed by some highlights of laser developments for the facility.

All welcome