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AUSA 2023 : Rheinmetall's PATH A-kit-a platform agnostic, next-generation system that brings critical autonomus capabilities to any vehicle




  • American Rheinmetall brings PATH A-Kit to the U.S. defense market when autonomy matters most

  • PATH A-Kit is a ready-now, mature and proven system that turns any vehicle into an autonomous powerhouse

  • PATH A-Kit is on display at AUSA on the following booths: Rheinmetall (#1603), Tomahawk Robotics (#4049) and L3Harris Tech



At this year’s AUSA Annual Meeting & Exposition, Rheinmetall is showcasing its PATH Autonomy Kit (A-Kit) on a variety of platforms to demonstrate the system’s ability to transform any vehicle platform into an autonomous powerhouse. The system can be seen at the Rheinmetall booth (#1603) where it will be displayed on an M5 Ripsaw RCV equipped with Rheinmetall’s 30mm Skyranger turret, and also on partner booths – Tomahawk Robotics (#4049) and L3Harris Technologies (#1725) – where variants of Rheinmetall’s Mission Master unmanned ground vehicle will be on display.


The Rheinmetall PATH A-Kit is a navigation system that enables full autonomous movement of vehicles. It can be rapidly integrated onto existing vehicles or the latest next-generation platforms. It is a core element of Rheinmetall’s exceptional Mission Master family of autonomous vehicles and combines advanced sensors, technology leading algorithms, and real-time data analysis to allow vehicle platforms to operate autonomously in a wide range of operating environments. Fielded and tested on this family of vehicles, but also a wide array of other platforms, the PATH A-Kit is a mature, proven technology that stands out from the competition.


In addition to facilitating fully autonomous operations, the PATH A-Kit software includes wireless technology that is loaded onto a Safe Tablet. The tablet is a modular, configurable device that enables remote operation of any vehicle equipped with the PATH A-Kit, as demonstrated on the Mission Master family of vehicles. The Safe Tablet can be used to control different mission module payloads (surveillance, weapons, cargo, etc.), making it the preferred portable control station for the Mission Master family of vehicles and mission modules they carry.


American Rheinmetall is now bringing ground-breaking advancements in autonomous systems to the U.S. defense market at a critical time with Rheinmetall’s PATH A-Kit, a ready-now, mature and proven solution, with advanced capabilities that ensures future force mobility that is agile, versatile, persistent, reliable, survivable and lethal.


https://www.rheinmetall.com/Rheinme...2023-10-09-Rheinmetall-PATH-A-Kit-at-AUSA.pdf


 

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AUSA 2023: American Rheinmetall unveils best-in-class 30mm cannon on robotic combat vehicle to demonstrate mobile c-UAS excellence




  • American Rheinmetall is displaying the Skyranger 30mm turret on Textron Systems’ Ripsaw M5 RCV at AUSA to demonstrate leading c-UAS technology, available now (booth 1603)

  • Skyranger offers exceptional lethality, precision and versatility in all air defense scenarios

  • Skyranger, paired with Textron’s M5 can be deployed alongside ground forces or used for stationary vital-asset protection




Rheinmetall, a leader in advanced defense technologies and solutions, is taking the mobile counter-UAS fight to the next level at this year’s Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting. Rheinmetall is showcasing the exceptionally lethal, precise and versatile Skyranger 30, the world’s most advanced c-UAS turret, with the combined speed, mobility, and unmanned capability of Textron Systems’ Ripsaw M5 robotic combat vehicle (RCV). When integrated on an unmanned ground vehicle, Skyranger can secure the air space and mitigate UAS threats in the most austere and contested battle spaces, including autonomously at the tactical edge. Visitors to AUSA can see the Skyranger displayed on Textron’s M5, on Rheinmetall’s booth (#1603).


The use of best-in-class cannon systems means that Skyranger can stand its ground against swarming attacks. Together with Textron’s M5, Skyranger can be deployed alongside ground forces or used for stationary vital-asset protection. The Skyranger can protect mobile units on the march or critical fixed infrastructure and facilities from loiter, pop-up and dive attacks. The Skyranger 30 variant represents a significant leap-ahead in c-UAS technology by coupling 360° air and ground surveillance with an autonomous 30mm Oerlikon Revolver Gun®, Oerlikon AHEAD® airburst ammunition and short-range air defense missiles. The 30mm revolver gun provides ultimate firepower and precision at 1,250 rds/min, and when combined with the dynamically programmed airburst ammunition, enhances the probability of hitting even the smallest micro and nano drones.


Skyranger can independently generate its own local air picture while its open architecture C2 system (Skymaster), IFF and data link can be seamlessly integrated into higher echelon systems such as FAADC2. As the threats evolve, so will the Skyranger. Also available as a 35mm variant, the Skyranger family offers the most modern mobile defense against an array of current and future battlefield air threats.


Rheinmetall has earned exceptional customer trust on an international level, providing air defense and c-UAS solutions to over 40 countries and is committed to working with the U.S. Army and industry partners to deliver next-generation air defense capabilities in America.




 

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Rheinmetall receives a further order for artillery shells: third call-off from framework agreement




  • Rheinmetall books order to supply over 150,000 rounds of artillery ammunition

  • Call-off worth a figure in the mid-three-digit million-euro range

  • Transaction underscores Rheinmetall’s role as a global leader in ammunition development and production



Rheinmetall has booked a further order for artillery ammunition under a framework agreement with the German Bundeswehr. The third call-off, it encompasses the delivery of over a hundred thousand 155mm shells from the Group’s new Spanish subsidiary Rheinmetall Expal Munitions as well as additional DM 121 high-explosive rounds. Although the customer is the German government, all the ammunition is earmarked for Ukraine. The order is worth a figure in the mid-three-digit million-euro range. Tens of thousands of rounds are to be delivered in 2023, with the reminder due to ship in 2024.


As recently as July 2023, Rheinmetall announced the signing of a new framework agreement for artillery ammunition with the Bundeswehr and the expansion of an existing agreement. The contracts encompass the delivery of several hundred thousand shells, fuses and propelling charges.


The war in Ukraine has compelled the armed forces of numerous nations to replenish their ammunition stocks. In this context, Rheinmetall has already booked several large orders for artillery ammunition.


The framework agreement for 155mm artillery ammunition concluded in July runs until 2029 and represents gross potential order volume of around €1.2 billion. Two large call-offs have already been made.


Among other products, Rheinmetall’s family of artillery ammunition includes the high-explosive DM121 shell, the DM125 smoke/obscurant projectile and (jointly developed with Diehl) the DM702 SMArt sensor fuse munition, plus the RH68 practice round and the range-optimized RH1901 an RH1902 smoke/obscurant projectiles. The Group’s portfolio also includes the versatile 155mm Assegai family from Rheinmetall Denel Munition, which encompasses insensitive ammunition and conventional HE shells as well as smoke/obscurant, illumination, infrared illumination and other projectiles. All Assegai artillery ammunition types have a maximum range of approximately 40 kilometres. Under the latest framework agreement, the tried-and-tested Assegai ammunition family will now be entering service with the Bundeswehr.




 

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AUSA 2023: American Rheinmetall supports successfull test of M109 Self-Propelled Howitzer modified with Rheinmetall's combat-tested 52-caliber cannon



  • Rheinmetall and BAE Systems have successfully proved compatibility of L52 cannon and M109A7 Self-Propelled Howitzer

  • The M109-52 system provides tactical fires overmatch to U.S. Army in a capability assured, timely, low risk manner

  • Full scale M109-52 system at AUSA on BAE Systems booth (#925), with Rheinmetall’s systems house solutions for platform, cannon, projectile and propellant technology at booth (1603)



Rheinmetall and BAE Systems have successfully completed a live fire test of the M109 Self-Propelled Howitzer (SPH) modified with Rheinmetall’s L52 155mm, 52-caliber cannon. The M109-52 is a significant, low-risk, high-performance upgrade to the current 39-caliber cannon and provides additional range required in large-scale operations. The test, conducted at Camp Ripley, MN, proved the compatibility of the L52 cannon with the M109A7 platform during the live fire exercise.


“Integrating Rheinmetall’s world-class, battle-tested L52 artillery cannon system into the M109 platform will return tactical fires overmatch to the U.S. Army in a capability assured, timely, low-risk manner,” said Joe Chan, VP of Business Development at American Rheinmetall Munition.


Rheinmetall’s L52 artillery cannon system is currently the backbone of nine NATO and allied partner nations’ tactical artillery forces. By integrating this world class, combat proven system on the M109 platform, the US will achieve expanded interoperability on day one with battlefield partners. Notably, the cannon system has become a favorite for Ukraine due to its accuracy, range and durability in combat.


The M109-52 offers a low-risk pathway to rapid development, putting this significantly improved capability in the hands of our warfighters quickly to ensure overmatch on the battlefield. By combining two mature systems, Rheinmetall and BAE Systems avoid many of the technical risks associated with similar lethality upgrade efforts. The criticality to deliver improved artillery capabilities is underscored by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and is a key part of the Army’s number one modernization priority – long-range precision fires.


The team plans to conduct additional testing in 2024, which will highlight extended range across a variety of ammunition combinations.


Rheinmetall will feature their systems house solutions for platform, cannon, projectile and propellant technology across the Artillery “eco-system” at this year’s AUSA Annual Meeting & Exhibition in Washington, DC, with a display at the Rheinmetall booth (#1603). A full-sized M109-52 system will be featured on the BAE Systems booth (#925) for attendees to view throughout the show.




 

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Rheinmetall AG and Ukrainian Defense Industry JSC establish joint venture in Kyiv



  • Rheinmetall and Ukrainian Defense Industry (UDI) establish joint venture in Kyiv

  • Rheinmetall owns a 51% stake in the company, with the remaining 49% held by UDI

  • Maintenance of military vehicles forms the first step in cooperation between the two groups

  • Cooperation will soon extend to the joint production in Ukraine of selected Rheinmetall products



The tech enterprise Rheinmetall and Ukraine’s state-owned Ukrainian Defense Industry JSC (UDI, the former Ukroboronprom) have set up a joint venture company in Kyiv. Denys Shmyhal, Ukraine’s Prime Minister, made the announcement on the occasion of the German-Ukrainian Business Forum in Berlin, which was also attended by the German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Rheinmetall Ukrainian Defense Industry LLC has already been operating since 18 October 2023. It is jointly owned by Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH, with a 51% stake, and UDI, which holds the remaining 49%.


Strategic cooperation in the defence realm between the two organizations began back in May 2023. On 28 September 2023 Germany’s Federal Cartel Office gave the new joint venture the green light, followed by approval from the relevant agencies in Poland and Ukraine in early October. A few days later Rheinmetall Ukrainian Defense Industry was officially registered and commenced operations.


The joint venture will be active in the fields of service and maintenance as well as assembly, production and development of military vehicles, and will initially operate solely on Ukrainian sovereign territory. “In Germany there are no competition overlaps and no indications of competition-related concerns”, stated the Federal Cartel Office in a press release dated 28 September 2023.


First announced in May 2023, cooperation between Rheinmetall and the Ukrainian defence sector is intended to strengthen Ukraine’s domestic defence industry and, ultimately, its national security. The plan calls for creating joint defence industry capabilities in Ukraine.


Ukraine stands to benefit from this cooperation in multiple ways, including the creation and expansion of defence technology capacities in-country, additional local added value as well as the swift delivery of military equipment from Germany.


Service and maintenance of military vehicles supplied to Ukraine either directly or via the German government’s “Ringtausch” multilateral equipment exchange projects form the first step in cooperation between Rheinmetall and UDI. The cooperation will soon extend to the joint production in Ukraine of selected Rheinmetall products.


 

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Rheinmetall wins low three-digit million euro order from German government to supply mortar ammunition to Ukraine




  • Rheinmetall awarded order to supply Ukraine with around 100,000 rounds of mortar ammunition

  • Order worth a figure in the lower-three-digit million-euro range

  • Delivery expected to start soon



Rheinmetall has received an order from the German government to supply Ukraine with around 100,000 rounds of 120mm mortar ammunition. The order, worth a figure in the lower-three-digit million-euro range, forms part of a recent
€400 million military aid package for the Ukrainian armed forces. Delivery is due to begin shortly and extend over the next two years.


With its recent takeover of Spanish ammunition maker Expal, Rheinmetall has further reinforced its already extensive expertise in the field of infantry fire support. The Group’s product range encompasses a complete array of 120mm, 81mm and 60mm mortar ammunition. Augmenting these are fire control systems and mortar weapon systems like the 120mm Ragnarök and the innovative RSG60, a 60mm mortar system.


Thanks to its enhanced range, heightened precision and optimum combat effectiveness, Rheinmetall mortar ammunition can assure favourable outcomes even during operations in difficult terrain and urban environments.


The latest order from the German government underscores Rheinmetall’s role as a leading supplier of indirect fire technology.


 

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Rheinmetall to supply Ukraine with over 30 Leopard 1 systems on behalf of German government



  • Ukraine contracts with Rheinmetall for 32 Leopard 1 systems

  • Order worth a figure in the upper-two-digit million-euro range

  • Delivery in 2024

  • Work on the vehicles is underway at Rheinmetall plants in Unterlüß and Kassel



The Ukrainian government has awarded Rheinmetall a contract for Leopard 1 systems, including 25 main battle tanks Leopard 1A5, five armoured recovery vehicles (Bergepanzer 2) and two driver training tanks. The order, financed by Germany and worth a figure in the upper-two-digit million-euro range, also includes training, logistics, spare parts, maintenance and other support services.


Delivery is due to take place in 2024. The Leopard 1 systems are currently being overhauled and readied for use at Rheinmetall’s plants in Unterlüß and Kassel.


Rheinmetall thus continues to support Ukraine with a steady flow of tactical vehicles. The Group has previously been tasked with supplying Ukraine with a total of eighty Marder infantry fighting vehicles. Most of these are already in-country, where they have proved their mettle in ongoing operations.


Rheinmetall is ready to supply a further twenty Marder IFVs as soon as it receives an order to this effect. In late 2023 and early 2024, Ukraine will also be taking delivery of five Caracal airmobile-capable vehicles. On behalf of the Dutch and Danish governments, moreover, next year the Group will be supplying Ukraine with fourteen Leopard 2A4 tanks. In addition to vehicles, Rheinmetall is aiding the Ukrainian armed forces with ammunition, drones, medical facilities, etc.


 

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Rheinmetalls Electronics UK's Contract Award to Supply Trailblazer Camera System to UK Warrior IFV's





  • UK Ministry of Defence select Trailblazer from Rheinmetall Electronics UK for the third UKplatform – Warrior

  • Equipment for 359 vehicles; order in the low double-digit million euro range

  • Trailblazer will provide a Rear Safety Camera System (RSCS) enhancing the safety of the Warrior Infantry Fighting Vehicle

  • The selected Trailblazer system provides wide field of view, SIL1 and EMC Land Class A compliance.





Rheinmetall has been awarded a contract by the UK Ministry of Defence to supply the Trailblazer driver's view system for the Warrior infantry fighting vehicle fleet. Rheinmetall Electronics UK Ltd won the contract in an open competition and will now supply Trailblazers for a total of 359 Warrior infantry fighting vehicles. The order value is in the low double-digit million euro range.


The Trailblazer cameras will be used as a Rear Safety Camera System (RSCS) for the Warrior vehicle, providing a key safety feature for the driver to recognise terrain and personnel at the rear of the vehicle.


The camera proposed by Rheinmetall Electronics UK is also used as the PAX camera on the Boxer Mechanised Infantry Vehicle (MIV) – part of the vehicles complete local situational awareness system. The PAX model comprises an infrared camera with a 90° field of view giving coverage down to 0 Lux, allowing the driver a wide field of view across the width of the vehicle.


On the Boxer MIV programme, it has recently been independently confirmed that the Trailblazer system will be compliant to an internationally recognised functional safety standard (IEC 61508, within a SIL2 application).


Alongside delivery into the Warrior and Boxer MIV programmes, Rheinmetall Electronics UK are also providing the Driver Vision System on the Challenger 3 main battle tank programme. Boxer MIV and Challenger 3 represent two of the most important modernisation programs for the British Army. Selection of a common Trailblazer solution provides excellent coherence across the fleet.


As part of this programme, Rheinmetall Electronics UK will be delivering the latest, Third Generation Trailblazer solutions, which are fully software defined, Generic Vehicle Architecture (GVA) compatible and have already been qualified to safety and EMC standards, reducing risks around integration. The cameras support continuous, incremental updates, ensuring the capability remains evergreen.


Wayne Cranwell, Rheinmetall Electronics UK Head of Sales said: “Our solution to the Warrior RSCS requirement was founded on the mature design we provide into the Boxer MIV programme ensuring effective and safe rearward operations. Great to see that DE&S identified our proposal as the best value offer in this competition - this will keep this important British Army capability current for the remainder of its in-service lifetime.”


Richard Streeter, Rheinmetall Electronics UK Managing Director said: “It is heartening to see coherence developing across the UK fleet vehicle vision. This approach drives down integration and delivery risk and timelines as well as the total cost of ownership for the UK MoD. The Trailblazer Gen 3 solution was specifically developed to meet the demanding requirements of the UK Army and it will be great to see this system now also supporting the safety needs of the Warrior platform.”


Brigadier Matt Wilkinson, Vehicle Support Team Leader, Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), said: “This safety critical upgrade to Warrior is being delivered at pace and with the principals of quality, supportability, and value for money at its heart. The DE&S Vehicle Support Team look forward to working with Rheinmetall Electronics UK in integrating this leading-edge technology to our in-service fleet of Armoured Infantry Fighting Vehicles over the next 12 months.”


Notes to editors


Rheinmetall Electronics UK delivers high-performance embedded electronic solutions and operates from their headquarters based on the Isle of Wight in the south of England.


Rheinmetall Electronics UK provide Mission Systems to government, defence, security and communications customers. The offering also includes situational awareness systems for armoured vehicles, long range surveillance video processors and products for electronic warfare and cyber applications.


 

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Rheinmetall wins major artillery ammunition order for Ukraine worth over €140 million




  • Rheinmetall to supply Ukraine with artillery ammunition worth €142 million

  • Tens of thousands of 155mm shells

  • Delivery in 2025

  • Order from NATO country in support of Ukraine’s defensive struggle

  • Production to take place at Rheinmetall Expal Munitions plants in Spain




Rheinmetall has won a large-volume order for supporting Ukraine with artillery ammunition. The Düsseldorf-based tech enterprise has been tasked with supplying Kyiv with artillery rounds worth around €142 million. The order encompasses tens of thousands of complete 155mm artillery shells, including the projectile, fuse (for the explosive charge), propellant and primer (for igniting the propellant). The customer is a NATO partner nation whose declared intention is to support Ukraine in its defensive struggle with effective long-term military aid.


The shells will be produced by Rheinmetall Expal Munitions, the Group’s newly acquired Spanish subsidiary. The current contract highlights Rheinmetall’s role as the world’s largest producer of ammunition, especially in the large calibre domain. The ammunition will be delivered in 2025. Production and delivery of around 40,000 rounds for Ukraine from an earlier order is already due to take place in 2024.


As recently as mid-October 2023, the German government placed an order with Rheinmetall for over 100,000 rounds of 155mm ammunition earmarked for Ukraine – once again from Rheinmetall Expal Munitions – as well as additional DM 121 high explosive shells. The order is worth a figure in the mid-three-digit million-euro range.


Demand for artillery ammunition is currently very high, due not just to Ukraine’s requirements but also the need to replenish the largely empty ammunition depots of Germany and other NATO and EU countries. Rheinmetall plans a massive increase in ammunition production capacity in 2024 at its plants in Germany, Spain, South Africa and Australia,
bringing annual output capacity to around 700,000 artillery rounds.


Rheinmetall currently has multiyear framework contracts for supplying the German Bundeswehr with several hundred rounds of artillery ammunition worth over €1 billion.


 

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Rheinmetall Electronics UK sign the Armed Forces Covenant




  • Rheinmetall Electronics UK have signed the UK Armed Forces Covenant

  • By signing the Covenant, Rheinmetall Electronics UK are pledging support to those who serve and have served in the UK Armed Forces




Rheinmetall Electronics UK Ltd have pledged their support and commitment to those who serve, or have served in our forces by signing the Armed Forces Covenant.


By signing the covenant, Rheinmetall Electronics UK will commit to honour and support the Armed Forces Community and recognise the value that serving personnel, including reservists, veterans and their families contribute to both the company’s business and the country as a whole.


Rheinmetall Electronics UK will pledge to support those who commit their lives to the Armed Forces by supporting UK service Veterans and those leaving the forces, offering flexible working arrangements to Reservists and offering support to Cadets through insight days and other engagements. By making these pledges, the company is supporting past, present and future members of the UK Armed Forces and demonstrating their commitment to ensuring all, whether Regular or Reserves, are treated with fairness and respect in the local and wider communities.


Richard Streeter, Rheinmetall Electronics UK Managing Director said:“It was a great pleasure to sign the Armed Forces Covenant alongside Captain Andrew Robinson RN Captain of the Base at HMNB Portsmouth. For Rheinmetall Electronics UK, this commitment to the covenant demonstrates our support to current, future and past members of the UK Armed Forces, not only with our products but also with our commitment to the welfare of Service Veterans and Leavers, Cadets and Reservists. We remain ever grateful for their service.”


 

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Rheinmetall wins major contract: Austuria orders state-of-the-art air defence system for €532 million



  • Rheinmetall wins €532 million order to upgrade Austria’s 35mm air defence systems

  • Skyguard Next Generation results from modernizing existing guns

  • Project runs for 48 months starting in Feb 2024

  • Contract includes spare parts, training and 35mm Ahead ammunition




The Austrian defence ministry has contracted with Rheinmetall to carry out a comprehensive modernization of its existing Skyguard air defence systems. In the presence of Austrian minister of defence Klaudia Tanner, the two parties have now signed the contract for Project Skyguard Next Generation in Vienna. For Rheinmetall the order represents sales of €532 million (without value added tax), which can already be booked as an incoming order in December 2023. The contract encompasses a project period of 48 months starting in February 2024.


On behalf of Austria, a neighbouring nation and close partner of Germany, Rheinmetall will be conducting one of the most ambitious air defence projects in Europe. For the Austrian Army, the undertaking is an important step in its “Mission Forward” rearmament programme to revamp the country’s armed forces.


Armin Papperger, chairman of the executive board of Rheinmetall AG, welcomed the news: “We’re delighted by this important market win for Skynex technology. In this flagship project, Austria is at the absolute forefront of antiaircraft and counter-drone defence in Europe. This major order also highlights Rheinmetall’s key role in reequipping the armed forces of Europe in response to new threats. Our solutions for stationary and mobile air defence are part of this.”


Skyguard Next Generation belongs to the Skynex family of products from Rheinmetall Air Defence, the global leader in close-range air defence technology. The order package for Austria comprises a total of seven tactical units, each consisting of four 35mm guns, a sensor unit for monitoring airspace and a command post. In the process, twenty-eight 35mm guns currently in the customer’s inventory will be upgraded to the latest state of the art. The contract also includes spare parts, training support and 35mm ammunition. A contractually agreed option for ordering an additional tactical unit exists as well.


In the words of Oliver Dürr, CEO of Rheinmetall Air Defence AG in Zürich, “We greatly appreciate the trust of our friends and partners in Austria. The Austrian Army’s decision in favour of Skyguard Next Generation is more than just a quantum leap – it opens the door to a whole dimension in antiaircraft and counter-drone capabilities.”


Austria is getting a custom-built, pathbreaking solution for close-range air defence. “The order is a significant gain for our company”, declares Dürr, “and especially for our Zürich plant, which is responsible for carrying out the project, where it will make a decisive contribution to capacity utilization.”


The Skyguard Next Generation system is based on existing weapons systems owned by the Austrian Army. As part of a service life extension programme, its existing 35mm Oerlikon twin guns will be completely modernized and linked to a high-performance target tracking capability and Rheinmetall’s Skymaster command system.


Extraordinarily high-precision sensors make it possible to detect and identify aerial targets at an early stage. The command system lets the operator build up a local picture, evaluate the threat situation and, in close coordination with high-echelon elements, open fire. Guided missiles can also be incorporated into the system.


The complete system is highly mobile, assuring maximum efficiency during military planning. The guns can be dismounted and/or operated remotely, keeping troops well out of harm’s way while simultaneously improving combat effectiveness.


 

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Rheinmetall and Airbus transfer another simulator for Europe's first A400M transport aircraft to the Bundeswehr



  • A400M Cargo Hold Part-Task Trainer simulator transferred to Bundeswehr

  • A total of ten Rheinmetall A400M cargo simulators now in service

  • CPTT is an exact replica of a A400M cargo hold




The tech enterprise Rheinmetall and the European aeronautics and space company Airbus have transferred an A400M cargo hold simulator to the Bundeswehr’s 62nd Air Transport Squadron (LTG 62) at Wunstorf in Lower Saxony. The Cargo Hold Part Task Trainer (CPTT) complements existing simulators and training systems at the German Air Force’s A400M Training Centre. In Wunstorf, cargo hold crews already train (among other things) on the advanced Cargo Hold Trainer Enhanced (CHT-E).


Airbus, manufacturer of the European A400M military transport aircraft, contracted with Rheinmetall in February 2021 to supply two CPTT training simulators to the Bundeswehr’s Wunstorf and Altenstadt bases. The order was worth a figure in the lower-two-digit million-euro range. The Air Movement Training Center in Altenstadt already took delivery of the training simulator at the end of 2022. Cargo personnel and paratroopers have been successfully training on the system ever since. The transfer of the second Rheinmetall simulator brings this elaborate project to a successful close.


The A400M CPTT is an exact replica of an A400M cargo hold, enabling cargo crewmembers, paratroopers and ground personnel to train in a highly realistic environment. The CPTT makes it possible to practise mission-specific alteration of the cargo hold, load preparation, loading and unloading, in-flight and ground procedures as well as cooperation between crewmembers. The system is equally suitable for initial and advanced training as well as refresher courses and mission rehearsal purposes.


Complex scenarios and emergency situations can be practised in complete safety. This way, training never ties up the original equipment, which remains available for actual operations. In addition to training operations, the CPTT enables users to evaluate, test and qualify procedures and configurations for new load types.


Besides the CPTT Rheinmetall has supplied various A400M user nations around the globe with other cargo training devices such as the Load Master Work Station Trainer/LMWST and the aforementioned CHT-E. With the transfer of the CPTT to LTG 62, a total of ten highly realistic A400M simulator systems from Rheinmetall are now assuring a high standard of training and instruction in the A400M cargo domain.


In 2019 Rheinmetall transferred a CPTT to the Royal Malaysian Air Force. Moreover, CHT-E simulators have already been supplied to the Airbus International Training Centre (ITC) in Seville, the Royal Air Force in Brize Norton, the German Air Force in Wunstorf, and the French Army in Toulouse. There is an LMWST at the Airbus ITC in Sevilla, one at France’s national A400M training centre in Orléans, and another at the Royal Air Force National Training Centre in Brize Norton.


 

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Panther ready to pounce - Rheinmetall signs developement contract with Hungary for nextgeneration tank



  • Hungary awards Rheinmetall contract to develop Panther KF51 tank
  • Development in cooperation with N7
  • Contract worth around € 288 million
  • Demonstrator vehicle to be built and qualified
  • Panther KF 51 EVO to feature L55A1 smoothbore gun and autoloader




The Hungarian government has joined forces with Rheinmetall to develop the Panther KF51 through to production maturity. A contract to this effect has now been signed in Zalaegerszeg, Hungary. The development contract is worth around €288 million. A demonstrator vehicle will be constructed and qualified, paving the way to full-scale production. Rheinmetall is cooperating in the project with the state-owned Hungarian holding company N7, which also holds a 49 percent stake in the joint venture Rheinmetall Hungary.


“We’re delighted to have reached another important milestone on the path to producing next-generation fighting vehicles in Hungary”, declares Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall. “The Panther KF51 is the world's most advanced main battle tank. It sets a new standard for the combat effectiveness of mechanized formations, while delivering a high degree of future adaptability. At the same time, in our accustomed manner, we’ll be empowering our local Joint Venture Rheinmetall Hungary and further strengthen the national defence industrial capabilities of our partners.”


Moving forward together as partners, Hungary and Rheinmetall will jointly develop and prepare for full production the next-generation tank whose concept Rheinmetall first presented to the world public at Eurosatory 2022 trade fair. Unlike the system demonstrator on show at Eurosatory, the Panther KF51 EVO will be armed with Rheinmetall’s tried-and-tested L55A1 120mm smoothbore gun, which also features in the latest variants of the Leopard 2. This will ensure logistical homogeneity with Hungary’s existing fleet of Leopard 2 tanks. Nevertheless, the Panther KF51 EVO will already be equipped with an autoloader. Moreover, the turret architecture will enable subsequent retrofitting of Rheinmetall’s new 130mm gun.


The Panther K51 possesses a high degree of digitalization and networkability. Furthermore, new force protection technologies like the standoff protection system StrikeShield will enable a low aggregate weight. Its chassis is based on the Buffalo armoured recovery vehicle, supplied by Rheinmetall. In combination with the tank’s low total weight, this contributes to the Panther KF51’s high mobility, while simultaneously resulting in synergy effects in logistics, maintenance and training owing to commonalities with the Leopard 2 family.


The basic crew of the Panther KF51 consists of three soldiers: the commander, gunner and driver. A fourth station, in front on the lefthand side of the bow, is reserved for a subsystem operator. A company or battalion commander can also use it as a mobile command post.


 

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Further call-off from Rheinmetall framework agreement : Ukraine receives artillery ammunition - order value in the triple - digit million euro range



  • Further call-off from framework agreement for 155mm artillery ammunition
  • Several tens of thousands of shells for Ukrainian armed forces
  • Order value in the low three-digit million euro range




The German Bundeswehr has again called off 155 mm artillery ammunition from Rheinmetall under the framework agreement. Rheinmetall has been commissioned to supply a total of several tens of thousands shells of various types for the Ukrainian armed forces. The order is worth a three-digit million euro amount. Delivery is scheduled for the course of 2025.


The new call-off continues the series of artillery ammunition orders previously placed by the Bundeswehr for the Ukrainian and German armed forces. In July 2023, Rheinmetall concluded a new framework agreement with the Bundeswehr in the artillery sector. It covers the delivery of several hundred thousand shells, fuses and propelling charges. The new framework agreement runs until 2029 and has a potential gross order volume of around €1.2 billion (including VAT).


The need to replenish stores of ammunition caused by the war in Ukraine is resulting in major artillery ammunition contracts for Rheinmetall.


Rheinmetall’s family of artillery ammunition includes, among other ordnance, the high explosive DM121, the DM125 smoke/obscurant shell, the DM121 SMArt search-fused round (jointly developed with Diehl Defence), as well as the RH68 practice version and the range-optimized RH1901 and RH1902 smoke/obscurant shells. The Group’s product portfolio also encompasses the versatile Assegai family of 155mm artillery ammunition made by Rheinmetall Denel of South Africa. It includes insensitive munitions (IM), conventional high explosive (HE) rounds, as well as smoke/obscurant, illumination, infrared illumination, and other shells. With its boat tail (BT) and base bleed (BB) configurations, the Assegai family displays a ballistic equilibrium, ensuring that the entire ammunition spectrum can be used at its maximum effective range of approximately 40 kilometres. Under the framework contract, the Bundeswehr will be introducing the tried-and-tested Assegai ammunition family. Rheinmetall also offers the artillery family from Rheinmetall Expal Munitions, including the 155mm M107 and 155mm Extended Range.


 

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Rheinmetall wins follow-up order from Vienna : Austrian Army procuring more trucks - potential additional sales of over €300 million




  • Austria contracts with RMMV for another lot of trucks
  • Framework agreement expanded for up to 300 HX family vehicles
  • Potential additional sales of over €300 million
  • Austrian Army already uses TGM, TGS and HX trucks
  • Part of a comprehensive military modernization programme




Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles (RMMV) has just scored another significant sales success in Austria, winning a request for tenders for a further lot of logistic vehicles for the Austrian Army. A corresponding enlargement of the existing framework agreement with Bundesbeschaffung GmbH (BGG) of Vienna, the Austrian procurement organization, envisages delivery of up to 300 trucks, primarily from the HX family of vehicles. The expanded contract for the newly won lot runs for 48 months and offers the possibility of flexible call-offs of vehicles with an aggregate value of over €300 million.


In spring 2023, Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles won all six military lots in a request for tenders for a total of 23 lots of trucks. The resulting framework contract runs for seven years and envisages delivery of up to 1,375 vehicles from RMMV’s HX, TGS and TGM series. Order volume could be as high as €525 million. For Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles, the award of an additional lot brings the framework contract volume to over €825 million.


The expansion of the framework agreement concluded just last spring forms part of a comprehensive modernization of the Austrian Army, whose “Build-up Plan 2023” calls for substantial investment in the country’s military capabilities. Improving the mobility of forces in the field is a key element of the plan, reflected in the now well-endowed BBG framework agreement.


Austrian defence minister Klaudia Tanner recently visited the RMMV plant in Vienna’s Liesing district, where she praised the work of the Viennese staff: “I’m impressed by the professionalism of the work being done here. And I’m very glad that the Austrian armed forces have such a reliable partner as RMMV at their side.”


“The expansion of the framework agreement with Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles GmbH is another strong sign that the Austrian Army is modernizing, but this applies all the more so to the Austrian economy”, declares Michael Wittlinger, managing director of RMMV."We’re proud not only of our Vienna plant’s contribution to Austrian value added, but also of being able to enhance the resilience, autarky and sustainment of the Austrian Army.”


The Austrian Army has been a very good customer of RMMV for many years, with vehicles from the company’s TGM, TGS und HX lines successfully in service. Under the new framework agreement, the first half of 2023 witnessed an order of 850 TGM trucks with a double cabin and swap body build-on system as well 15 HX81 armoured recovery vehicles, including an 8-axle trailer. Furthermore, HX trucks with a three-sided tipper build-on and rear crane are slated for delivery in the next few years, as are TGS 8x8 vehicles with a Palfinger hook system. At the end of 2021, moreover, the Austrian Army placed an order with RMMV for exchangeable integrated armoured cabins. These can be mounted on existing HX vehicles in very short order in line with operational requirements.


RMMV is a joint venture company in which Rheinmetall AG holds a 51% stake, with the remaining 49% held by MAN Truck & Bus SE.


 

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Break through for Skyranger 30 air defence system : Rheinmetall awarded developement contract for Skyranger variant of Lynx in Hungary




  • Rheinmetall receives development order from Hungary for Skyranger 30 turret for the future Lynx KF41
  • Part of the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI)
  • Order value close to €30 million
  • Pioneering air defence system with 30mm cannon and ground-to- air missiles




The Düsseldorf-based tech enterprise Rheinmetall has scored a significant success in marketing its new Skyranger 30 air defence system as part of the European Sky Shield Initiative: Hungary, a NATO and EU member nation, has awarded Rheinmetall a contract for the conceptual development of the Skyranger 30 turret for the future Lynx KF41 Mobile Air Defence Vehicle. The contract has been signed on 15th December 2023 in Budapest.


For Rheinmetall, the development contract is worth close to €30 million. The customisation development of the Skyranger 30 turret for the Lynx tracked armoured vehicle and the integration of additional effectors responds to Hungary’s need to address the current threat situation, adding a new member to the Lynx family in the process.


The order highlights the Group’s role as the global leader in short-range air defence – an innovative force driving the ongoing development of cutting-edge air defence systems. Rheinmetall’s Skyranger 30 is the ideal solution for contemporary scenarios that involve countering drone attacks and other aerial threats.


The Lynx Skyranger 30 will be a pathbreaking air defence system based on the tried- and-tested Lynx infantry fighting vehicle. Integrating the state-of-the-art Skyranger air defence system results in an even more effective and versatile air defence capability. The system offers an optimum combination of mobility, survivability, flexibility and precision, capable of thwarting highly challenging new threats in the short- and very-short domain. A hybrid solution, its turret combines a high- performance 30mm automatic cannon, surface-to-air missiles and the accompanying sensor suite, all on a single platform. Moreover, the system is compatible with a variety of modern guided missiles, such as the Mistral, Stinger and Chiron.


Armin Papperger, chairman of the Group’s executive board, points out that “with the Skyranger 30, Rheinmetall is making an important contribution to the security of our customers and their ability to defend themselves. We’re committed to offering solutions that will remain more than a match for steadily evolving threats. In this development contract, we’ll be setting the standard yet again in the world of air defence technology. The Lynx Skyranger 30 is a top performer, capable of countering a vast variety of threats including ballistic missiles and unmanned aircraft. We’re proud to be able to offer our customers worldwide an advanced solution that meets their security needs so superbly.”


A highly qualified team of Rheinmetall engineers and expert technicians from different Rheinmetall entities will carry out the development of the Lynx Skyranger 30. The Group has longstanding experience in developing and integrating air defence systems and is determined to widen still further its lead in this area. The development contract also means an increase in capabilities for Rheinmetall's subsidiaries in Hungary.


This development project forms part of the European Sky Shield Initiative, or ESSI, which seeks to significantly Europe’s air defence capabilities in the next few years. The ESSI aims to protect Europe’s NATO member states more effectively against aerial attack. To achieve this quickly, ESSI member nations plan to jointly procure, deploy and maintain the relevant hardware, including radar systems, automatic cannon and surface-to-air guided missiles.


The Bundeswehr is eager to restore the German Army’s organic air defence capability. Procurement of around twenty Skyranger 30 systems is currently under consideration, to be mounted in this case on the Boxer 8x8 wheeled armoured vehicle.


Earlier, Denmark had already announced its intention of buying around fifteen Skyranger 30 systems, to be integrated into a different 8x8 wheeled armoured vehicle.


 

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Capacity expancion : Rheinmetall builds first Lynx infantry fighting vehicle for Hungary in Hungary




  • Rheinmetall Hungary builds first Lynx KF41 IFV in Zalaegerszeg plant
  • Transfer to Hungarian military in mid-2024
  • Ultramodern development and production centre reinforces Rheinmetall’s global production network
  • Total of 209 Lynx KF41 vehicles in 7 variants ordered; antiaircraft tank now in development




Rheinmetall continues to expand Europe’s armoured vehicle production capacity. Following the opening of the Group’s production, development and test facility for armoured fighting vehicles in Zalaegerszeg, the first Lynx infantry fighting vehicle to be built in-country in Hungary has now rolled off the assembly line. It is currently undergoing commissioning.


In mid 2024, following comprehensive function, performance and quality inspections in Zalaegerszeg, the first Hungarian-built Lynx will be transferred to the Hungarian armed forces.


“Rheinmetall is steadily expanding its production capacity in Europe in order to meet growing demand from our customers and to support European security”, states Rheinmetall executive board chairman Armin Papperger. “Opened in August of this year, our new plant in Hungary is the most advanced production and testing facilities for armoured vehicles anywhere in the world,” notes Papperger, going on to point out that it will further strengthen the Group’s global production network.


“We’re proud of our team in Zalaegerszeg and of our colleagues in Germany, who reached this milestone in record time”, declares Paul Walf, managing director of Rheinmetall Hungary.


The Hungarian ministry of defence awarded Rheinmetall a contract in September 2020 worth over €2 billion to supply Hungary with Lynx infantry fighting vehicles and related products and services. In the first production phase, Hungary is taking delivery of 46 Lynx IFVs made in Germany. The first vehicle was already transferred to the Hungarian military in October 2022. Starting at the end of 2023, the remaining vehicles will be produced in Hungary by Rheinmetall Hungary Zrt., a joint venture company co-owned by Rheinmetall (51%) and the Hungarian state (49%).


Opened in August 2023, Rheinmetall’s ultramodern facility in Zalaegerszeg will enable the development and production of state-of-the-art wheeled and tracked armoured fighting vehicles for the Hungarian armed forces. These include the Lynx KF41 family as well as the Evo version of the Panther KF51 main battle tank.


The contract originally envisaged seven variants of the Lynx KF41 for the Hungarian military: the standard infantry fighting vehicle; a command post vehicle; a reconnaissance vehicle; a forward artillery observer vehicle; a mortar track; a field ambulance; and a driver education vehicle. As a further variant, Rheinmetall will develop a Lynx mobile air defence vehicle with a Skyranger 30 turret. The contract for the conceptual development of this variant was signed in December 2023


 

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€328 million order in Romania : Rheinmetall to modernize NATO partner's air defence system




  • Rheinmetall gains Romania as customer
  • Upgrade of Romanian air defence systems ordered
  • Contract worth around €328 million without VAT
  • Package encompasses a total of four systems




The Romanian ministry of defence has contracted with Rheinmetall to thoroughly modernize the country’s Oerlikon GDF 103 air defence artillery systems. For the Düsseldorf-based technology enterprise, this is the first ever major order from Romania, a NATO and EU member state. Worth around €328 million, the contract encompasses the delivery of four systems as well as training, spare parts and other services. Two systems are to be delivered within the next two years, and two more within three years.


“This substantial first-time order from the Romanian government widens our footprint in Central Europe. It also underscores Rheinmetall’s role as a leading supplier of ground-based air defence systems. Moreover, the order will bolster the defensive capabilities of the EU and NATO on Europe’s eastern flank, something we’re very happy about”, states Armin Papperger, chairman of the executive board of Rheinmetall AG. In Satu Mare, Romania, close to the country’s borders with Ukraine and Hungary, Rheinmetall has already been operating a service hub for several months now, where it maintains and services military vehicles.


Each of the systems ordered consists of an Oerlikon Skymaster TLCN fire control system; an X-Band Tactical Acquisition Radar 3D, or X-TAR3D; six 35mm GDF009 TREO Oerlikon Twin Guns, including autoloader; and two heavy-duty special trucks for transporting the fire control system and the tracking radar.


 

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Birdie for the Bundeswehr : Rheinmetall awarded € 50 million order for infrared decoys




  • Rheinmetall to supply the Bundeswehr with over 470,000 aircraft protection decoys
  • Contract runs from December 2023 to December 2029
  • Order volume around €50 million
  • Effective deception of infrared-homing guided missiles



The Bundeswehr has awarded Rheinmetall a substantial order for decoy flares for protecting aircraft. The German military can now procure over 470,000 decoys from Rheinmetall’s tried-and-tested Birdie product line. Covering the period December 2023 to December 2029, the contract is worth nearly €50 million.


Birdie is an acronym standing for “Bispectral Infrared Decoy Improved Efficiency”. Marketed by Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH of Fronau, these infrared decoys, or ‘flares’, are ejected from helicopters, transport planes and jets to distract oncoming infrared-homing guided missiles. The flares simulate the heat signature of exhaust gases emitted by the aircraft engine.


The current contract specifies delivery of two different Birdie products: IR-Birdie 118 BS and IR-Birdie 218 BS. Both are already in service with the Bundeswehr, which refers to them as “Decoy, Aircraft, DM189A1, PT” and “Decoy, Aircraft, DM169A1, PT”, respectively.


Owing to the current security situation, aircraft self-defence has come sharply back into focus again. Decoys are one way of accomplishing this. Among other things, these include pyrotechnic flares, i.e., products designed to distract infrared search head-equipped surface-to-air missiles (SAM) and air-to-air missiles (AAM). Other techniques include chaff for thwarting enemy radar, and smoke-obscurant munitions such as Rheinmetall’s fast-acting ROSY smoke screen.


 

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Bundeswehr procuring medium calibre ammunition for Puma infantry fighting vehicle ; order worth a triple-digit million- euro figure



  • Bundeswehr issues call-off for several hundred thousand rounds of 30mm DM21 ammunition from existing framework contract
  • Order worth over €350 million, including VAT
  • Delivery in 2024-2027
  • Follow-up orders expected




The German Bundeswehr has contracted with Rheinmetall to produce and supply medium-calibre ammunition for the Puma infantry fighting vehicle. A call-off from an existing framework agreement, the order encompasses several hundred thousand rounds of 30mm x 173 DM21 service ammunition. The order is worth over €350 million, including value added tax. Once perfect functionality has been demonstrated, delivery will begin this year and continue through to 2027.


On 30 November 2022 the budget committee of the German Parliament approved a bill for the large-scale procurement of 30mm medium-calibre ammunition. Awarded back in December 2022, the framework contract for the supply of medium-calibre ammunition for the Puma infantry fighting vehicle worth up to €576 million. Follow-up call-offs are therefore expected. A first call-off of DM21 automatic cannon ammunition under the existing framework contract was already issued in late 2022. Furthermore, a call-off for 2023 followed in mid-2023.


The Puma infantry fighting vehicle is armed with a Rheinmetall MK30-2/ABM, specifically designed to fire airburst ammunition. Combining a high rate of fire with cutting-edge ammunition technology, the MK30-2/ABM is an uncompromisingly excellent, extremely reliable weapon system, perfect for engaging ground, air and maritime targets.


Rheinmetall is a vital supplier of ammunition for the Bundeswehr’s Puma infantry fighting vehicles. The Group produces and supplies two main types of 30mm x 173 service ammunition: the KETF DM21 (airburst) and the KE DM33 (armour-piercing) as well as the DM58 practice round. Developed and qualified in line with the latest standards, they are unrivalled worldwide in terms of reliability, lethality, penetrating power and precision.


Extremely reliable programming of the KETF DM21 – the abbreviation stands for Kinetic Energy Time Fuse – enables the Puma to engage larger soft targets and semi-hard area targets. The KE DM33 belongs to the new generation of subcalibre Armour Piercing Fin Stabilized Discarding Sabot – Tracer (APFSDS-T) ammunition. Its penetrator punches through modern armour even at remarkably small angles of impact and at long engagement ranges. Thanks to these two types of service ammunition, the Puma can successfully take on a wide spectrum of armoured, semi-hard, soft point and area targets.


 

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