Ukraine has received its first RCH 155 wheeled self-propelled howitzer from Germany, becoming the system’s inaugural operator. A total of 54 units are expected to equip three Ukrainian artillery battalions, with six remaining in Germany initially. The RCH 155 combines the Panzerhaubitze 2000’s advanced artillery system with the Boxer vehicle chassis, offering a highly mobile and automated solution. Its automated turret and range of up to 33.5 miles provide enhanced battlefield capabilities. This acquisition underscores Ukraine’s efforts to modernize its artillery assets amid ongoing war. Original news
Category: Germany
Rheinmetall awarded M107 ammunition contract
Rheinmetall has been scaling up its production capacity since 2022, aiming to produce up to 1.1 million 155mm artillery shells annually by 2027. The company recently secured a €21 million contract for tens of thousands of M107 artillery shells, with deliveries beginning in the first half of 2025. These shells, manufactured by Rheinmetall Expal Munitions in Spain, are compatible with numerous 155mm weapon systems and have been in NATO service for decades. Rheinmetall’s expansion addresses surging global demand, supplying Ukraine directly and replenishing the stockpiles of countries supporting Ukraine. This highlights Rheinmetall’s pivotal role in meeting the increased defense needs […]
Bundeswehr Awards EUR3 Billion Contracts To Rheinmetall And KNDS
The German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) have awarded contracts worth EUR3 billion to Rheinmetall and KNDS to integrate advanced digital radio and command-and-control systems. These upgrades, part of the Digitalization of Land-Based Operations (D-LBO) program, will modernize 10,000 vehicles within Germany’s land forces. The six-year, EUR1.98 billion contract is equally shared between Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH and KNDS Deutschland GmbH & Co. Deliveries will begin in mid-2025, managed by the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support, and conclude by 2030. This initiative underscores Germany’s commitment to enhancing operational capabilities through cutting-edge technology. Original news
Germany flexes submarine muscle with additional 4 boat order
Germany has tripled its order of ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) 212CD submarines, increasing the total to six as part of a joint procurement initiative with Norway. This expansion follows the German parliament’s approval of €21 billion in new defense spending, covering investments in frigates, Puma IFVs, Patriot missiles, and Elbit Systems’ PULS rocket artillery. TKMS confirmed the expanded order as one of its largest, with production on schedule and deliveries beginning for Norway in 2029 and for Germany in 2032. To support the increased demand, TKMS has invested over €250 million to boost production capacity at its Kiel facility. Featuring […]
Germany launches Taurus cruise missile modernisation programme
Germany is set to modernize its Taurus KEPD 350 cruise missile inventory starting in 2025, nearly 20 years after its introduction in 2005. The upgrade will prepare the missiles, currently integrated with Panavia Tornado aircraft, for use with the Eurofighter as the Tornado fleet retires by 2030. Developed by Germany’s MBDA and Sweden’s Saab Dynamics, the Taurus boasts a 480kg warhead and a range of over 500km. The system has also been exported to South Korea and Spain for integration with their Boeing F-15K and F-18 aircraft. This modernization effort reflects Germany’s commitment to maintaining advanced long-range strike capabilities. Original […]
Rheinmetall contracted by Ukraine to deliver Marder IFVs and propellant charge modules
Rheinmetall has secured contracts to deliver additional Marder 1A3 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) and tens of thousands of 155mm propellant charge modules to Ukraine. The Marder contract, valued in the mid-range double-digit million euros and funded by the German Government, aims for delivery by mid-2025, following previous shipments in 2023. A separate €9 million contract for 155mm charge modules will commence deliveries in January 2025. At the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Berlin, Rheinmetall and Ukraine signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen strategic cooperation, including plans for artillery ammunition production and Lynx IFV manufacturing. These efforts also focus on revitalizing […]
Lithuania Signs Deal For Leopard 2A8 Tanks
Lithuania’s newly appointed defense minister, Dovilė Šakalienė, signed an agreement on December 16 to procure 44 Leopard 2A8 tanks during an official visit to Germany. The deal, Lithuania’s largest military contract, is a key step in the country’s military modernization and aims to enhance NATO interoperability and regional security. During the visit, Šakalienė met with German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius to discuss defense cooperation, including the deployment of a 4,800-strong Bundeswehr heavy maneuver brigade to Lithuania in 2024. The tank acquisition was authorized by Lithuania’s State Defence Council prior to the October 27 election that brought Šakalienė to office. Additionally, […]
German Navy tests BlueWhale underwater drone for covert ship tracking
The German Navy tested the BlueWhale underwater drone in the Baltic Sea last month as part of efforts to develop a fleet of unmanned vessels for anti-submarine warfare. Manufactured by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), the BlueWhale is equipped with cameras and sensors for detecting submarines and mines while operating without emitting detectable signals. The tests, conducted in collaboration with Atlas Elektronik, support Germany’s “Marine 2035+” strategy to integrate unmanned technologies into naval operations. Dror Bar of IAI highlighted the drone’s compatibility with existing NATO interfaces, enabling seamless integration into alliance networks. This marks a significant step in modernizing Germany’s naval […]
Lithuania Attracts Defense Firms with Streamlined Ammo Production Rules
Lithuania has streamlined regulations for foreign defense companies to establish local production, attracting major Western manufacturers. New legislation grants large-scale defense projects “pressing national security needs” status, allowing regulatory exemptions. Germany’s Rheinmetall is building a 155mm artillery ammunition plant in Baisogala, set to begin operations in 2026, while Northrop Grumman will produce 30mm medium-caliber ammunition in Vilnius alongside Lithuania’s purchase of Boxer-Vilkas combat vehicles. Additional interest includes a Ukrainian firm planning an explosives plant, signaling Lithuania’s rise as a regional defense manufacturing hub. Collaboration between Lithuanian and Ukrainian authorities on drones, naval systems, and electronic warfare highlights a strategic effort […]
Poland wants more NATO members to help police Baltic Sea
Polish Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz has called for greater NATO involvement in policing the Baltic Sea to counter potential threats from Russia. At the upcoming NATO summit in The Hague, Poland plans to push for increased naval contributions from European nations like Germany and France. Kosiniak-Kamysz highlighted Poland’s substantial defense investments, including major purchases of U.S. equipment, as key to showcasing Europe’s self-reliance and securing continued American support. While Norway has deployed F-35 fighters to safeguard Polish airspace, Kosiniak-Kamysz noted that Poland’s MiG-29 jets cannot yet be sent to Ukraine, citing unmet conditions for Poland’s complete security. His remarks underscore […]
Helsing Launches New Drone, Signaling Strategic Shift to Hardware
European defense startup Helsing, valued at $4.5 billion, has shifted from a software-only focus to hardware with the launch of its HX-2 drone. Originally centered on AI software to enhance military capabilities, Helsing has pivoted to hardware manufacturing, challenging traditional defense giants like Raytheon and Lockheed Martin. The HX-2 drone, designed for swarm operations and targeting armored vehicles, marks a strategic shift for the company under CEO Torsten Reil. Manufactured in Germany, the HX-2 reflects Helsing’s broader goal to secure NATO’s eastern flank through partnerships with European arms manufacturers. With plans to produce tens of thousands of drones annually, Helsing […]
Saab steps up counter-drone training offer, with UK as first customer
Saab has introduced a new uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) training service, with the UK armed forces as its first customer. Unveiled at I/ITSEC on December 2, the system is designed for live exercises, functioning as either an asset or a simulated threat. The off-the-shelf UAV platform can be customized with sensors and simulated weapons to meet customer needs. It incorporates a laser target system that allows it to engage participants virtually or simulate being shot down by ground forces, enhancing tactical training. This innovation aims to improve soldier skills and tactical behavior evaluation in realistic scenarios. Original news
Germany Creates Combined Army, Air Force Helicopter Brigade
Germany will establish a joint aviation brigade combining army (Heer) and air force (Luftwaffe) helicopters to enhance operational readiness in response to Russia’s war in Ukraine. Announced on December 3, the brigade aims to meet NATO objectives by deploying forces more effectively and improving reaction speed. The Aviation Brigade New Force Model will include 65 helicopters, primarily Heer NH90 Troop Transport Helicopters (TTHs) and Luftwaffe CH-53G-series helicopters. This move underscores Germany’s commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities within NATO’s framework. The initiative highlights a unified approach to address evolving security challenges in Europe. Original news
Construction to begin on Rheinmetall plant in Lithuania
Lithuania and Rheinmetall have finalized contracts for the construction of a €180m ($189.2m) production plant for 155mm artillery ammunition in Baisogala. The facility, spanning 340 hectares, will include shell manufacturing and load assembly pack operations, aiming to produce tens of thousands of artillery shells annually by mid-2026. This state-significant project, established through a partnership between Lithuania’s government and Rheinmetall, will create 150 jobs and integrate local businesses into the defense supply chain. Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė emphasized the urgency of enhancing defense capabilities, supported by strong cooperation between Lithuania and Germany. Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger highlighted the partnership as […]
Rheinmetall Acquires Loc Performance To Expand US Market Presence
Rheinmetall Group has announced the acquisition of Loc Performance Products, LLC, a U.S.-based military vehicle specialist, as part of its strategy to expand in the world’s largest defense market. The $950 million acquisition strengthens Rheinmetall’s industrial base in the U.S. and positions it for major contracts, including the $45 billion XM30 infantry fighting vehicle program and the $16 billion CTT tactical truck program. Loc Performance, with its advanced manufacturing capabilities and 1.7 million square feet of production space, enhances Rheinmetall’s capacity to support U.S. Department of Defense modernization efforts. The partnership combines Loc’s manufacturing expertise with Rheinmetall’s next-generation technologies to […]