Industrie de defense Allemande / die deutsche Rüstungsindustrie

Citation :

Diehl lance un Sidewinder à guidage laser
Le 06/09/2012 à 17:15 | Par Guillaume Steuer


Le missile LaGS est un AIM-9L à guidage laser

Après s'être imposé comme le missile air-air courte portée occidental le plus vendu dans le monde, l'AIM-9 Sidewinder pourrait bien connaître une nouvelle carrière dans des applications air-sol.

Le missilier allemand Diehl, qui a acquis de longue date des compétences dans la construction sous licence de ce missile pour certains clients européens, va profiter du salon ILA (qui s'ouvrira le 11 septembre) pour dévoiler son "Laser-Guided Sidewinder", ou LaGS, un AIM-9 doté d'un capteur semi-actif laser... pour détruire des cibles terrestres.

Selon l'industriel allemand, il existerait aujourd'hui un marché pour des munitions air-sol légères, capables d'engager avec précision des cibles faiblement blindées. Diehl propose donc de "recycler" des AIM-9L, déjà dans l'inventaire des clients potentiels, en les équipant d'un capteur semi-actif laser qui leur permettrait, avec une reprogrammation logicielle, de traiter des cibles terrestres mobiles.

L'avantage principal est de s'affranchir de toute contrainte d'intégration, puisque le Sidewinder équipe déjà bon nombre d'avions de combat de part le monde.

En soi, l'idée n'est pas neuve. Entre 2007 et 2009, Raytheon avait démontré à la demande de l'US Air Force que son AIM-9X était capable de frapper des objectifs terrestres ; trois tirs d'essais réussis avaient été réalisés depuis un F-15C et un F-16, contre des embarcations rapides et un véhicule de transport de troupes. Mais ce programme de recherche n'a pas donné lieu à un déploiement opérationnel.

De la même manière, rappelons qu'au cours de l'opération Harmattan, les missiles air-air de l'hélicoptère Tigre ont, à trois reprises, été employés contre des véhicules, à chaque fois avec succès.

http://www.air-cosmos.com/defense/diehl-lance-un-sidewinder-a-guidage-laser.html

The German Rheinmetall Oerlikon Skynex Air Defence System integrates high-energy laser weapon, AA gun, VSHORAD & advanced sensors. pic.twitter.com/u3oW2X0ZcJ

— Caesar (@Ninja998998) January 20, 2022

Citation :

Rheinmetall
4 - 5 minutes

18 Feb 2022
[h]Rheinmetall presents the Lynx 120 mechanized fire support vehicle[/h3]

Rheinmetall has just unveiled the latest addition to the company’s Lynx next-generation combat vehicle family. The Düsseldorf-based technology group has now developed a mechanized fire support variant of the Lynx KF41 IFV. Called the Lynx 120, this unique platform merges a tried-and-tested turret concept and the proven 120mm smoothbore cannon with the Lynx KF 41 chassis. The new mechanized fire support variant of the Lynx offers the user outstanding fire support and anti-tank capabilities.

Thanks to a well-balanced blend of lethality, protection, mobility and survivability, the Lynx 120 is the perfect additional battlefield asset for Lynx platform users. Featuring off-the-shelf components, meticulous engineering reduces the vehicle’s weight, while customizable protection packages round out the package. The vehicle architecture has been simplified and provides an open ‘plug-and-play’ capability for future upgrades, while complying with, and adapting to, NATO standards.

Because armed forces have to cope with future challenges such as high-tech combat systems at a time when conventional solutions and concepts have reached the limits of their performance, the Lynx 120 is designed to deliver maximum lethality and firepower on tracks paired with the latest defence technologies to keep adversaries at bay.

Utilizing the Lynx KF 41 modular chassis and a scalable large-calibre turret concept, the Lynx 120 is a high-performance solution, harbouring vast growth potential and an assured overmatch capability. Just a couple of weeks ago, Rheinmetall Defence Australia unveiled a combat support vehicle (CSV) variant of the Lynx: now there is the fire support version as well.

The basic idea behind the Lynx 120 design concept is to provide a combat system that offers maximum operational performance in combination with logistic advantages within a reasonable timeframe at a realistic cost.

The vehicle’s main armament is a Rheinmetall 120mm smoothbore gun, derived from the main armament of the Leopard 2. It can fire state-of-the-art DM11 programmable high-explosive (HE) projectiles. Its secondary armament includes a coaxial machine gun. Moreover, the commander’s independent weapon station will feature an additional .50 cal. machine gun.

A 360° camera system with automatic target detection and tracking reduces the crew's workload in all operational scenarios.

Special protection modules enable a mission-specific response to ballistic threats, improvised explosive devices, explosively formed penetrators and artillery fire, and can be quickly mounted with limited tools. Moreover, the Lynx 120 can be readily equipped with the proven, already fielded Rheinmetall Active Defence System, or ADS, to defeat rocket-propelled grenades and antitank missiles. Additional armour packages and active protection systems can be provided on request.

Various nations are interested in acquiring the Lynx as a next-generation replacement for their aging inventories. The platform is currently a strong contender in Australian and Slovak IFV modernization plans and is competing for the USA’s Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle (OMFV) programme. Hungary became the launch customer in 2021. Going beyond strictly military aspects such as increased interoperability and capability upgrades, major localization elements form an integral part of these procurement plans, aimed at boosting local industry and creating jobs.

Citation :

Diehl Defence and Hensoldt enhancing performance of their ground-based air defense systems


Defense News April 2022 Global Security army industry

POSTED ON FRIDAY, 08 APRIL 2022 11:21

---

Diehl Defence and Hensoldt have agreed to intensify their cooperation in the field of ground-based air defence. Based on proven joint systems that are currently in production and can be delivered at short notice, the two companies intend to offer top-class products for defence against missile threats. These air defence systems employ the latest technologies, thus offering defence potential even against new and emerging threats.

---

Diehl Defence and Hensoldt have agreed to intensify their cooperation in the field of ground-based air defence
(Picture source: Hensoldt/Diehl Defence)

---

Diehl Defence and Hensoldt already work together in the field of ground-based air defence systems. In its medium-range system (IRIS-T SLM), Diehl Defence has integrated the battle management standard software IBMS-FC from Airbus, as well as active and passive radars from Hensoldt, transferred them to series production and already delivered them to an export customer. The IRIS-T SLM missiles are part of Diehl Defence's IRIS-T product family.

Helmut Rauch, CEO of Diehl Defence, said: "I am pleased to be able to further optimize our existing air defence systems through more intensive collaboration with HENSOLDT to provide solutions for new threat situations."

Thomas Müller, CEO of Hensoldt, said: "We combine the expertise of two high-tech companies whose products are regarded as benchmarks worldwide. Our jointly-developed systems have no reason to fear international comparison and guarantee unrestricted access to national key technologies."

IRIS-T SLM can be supplemented by elements of the short-range version IRIS-T SLS, which is already under contract in several European countries and is in operational use in Sweden, in order to also meet the requirements for so-called short-range and very short-range protection (NNbS). For this purpose, Diehl Defence has already presented a further developed variant which is now under contract outside NATO and is in the process of implementation. This provides a product portfolio that is capable of meeting the demands of German air defence.

The cooperation between Diehl Defence and HENSOLDT within the framework of IRIS-T SLM involves the multifunctional radar TRML-4D and the optional passive radar Twinvis, in addition to the launcher with missiles and the command center. IRIS-T SLM already provides highly effective protection against enemy aircraft, helicopters, missiles and drones and, unlike alternatively discussed solutions, meets all range and performance requirements.

Based on their cooperation in a joint export program, Diehl Defence and Hensoldt are now deepening their cooperation, taking into account the threat situation in Germany. Joint projects for other customers of Diehl Defence with further partners in other countries remain unaffected.

In view of threats from missiles and rockets, new air defence systems will be needed in the future to protect the territory of the Federal Republic of Germany within the framework of NATO's integrated air defence. This requires the equipment with ground-based air defence systems, whose interceptor missiles have a range of 40 km and can engage targets up to an altitude of 20 km. In addition, 360° all-round protection shall be achieved, which will also take into account attacks with cruise missiles. Full interoperability with the existing NATO-integrated air defence architecture is also equally essential.

A performance upgrade of the existing IRIS-T SLM system in the form of IRIS-T SLX is under development at Diehl Defence and HENSOLDT to supplement the existing air defence system by providing greater range (up to 80 km) and altitude coverage (up to 30 km) against airborne targets to improve response and warning times.

The joint solutions from Diehl Defence and Hensoldt can be made available to the German customer from the third quarter of 2022 if a procurement decision is made soon. These are products that, as purely German systems, do not rely on foreign technology and therefore offer the highest degree of accreditation and certifiability for operation in Germany and, in addition, the highest possible supply security. At the same time, full interoperability with the NATO-integrated air defence architecture is given.



Diehl Defence and Hensoldt enhancing performance of their ground-based air defense systems | Defense News April 2022 Global Security army industry | Defense Security global news industry army year 2022 | Archive News year (armyrecognition.com)

Citation :

KMW signs new framework agreement with EODH


POSTED ON THURSDAY, 16 JUNE 2022 22:53

---

Following the successful Strategic Cooperation between the Greek company EODH and KMW - KNDS Group over the last 20 years, a new Framework Agreement was signed on June 16 with expanded content.

---

The agreement was signed by the President of EODH Mr. Andreas Mitsis and the
Vice Chairman of the Board and Procurement Manager of KMW Mr. Heinz Oestervoss.
(Picture source: EODH)

---

The expanded Framework Agreement is ambitious, as the list of topics demonstrates :

1) Protection upgrade packages for Main Battle Tanks, based on the new generation ASPIS NG armor modules and protection technologies of EODH firstly presented on Eurosatory 2022 in total.
2) Cooperation in the field of Research and Development, testing and certification of the new cutting-edge technologies of EODH.
3) Cooperation in the field of armor protection and survivability solutions the current and future programs of KMW in Europe, the Middle East and other international markets.
4) Long-term Cooperation in the field of securing the guaranteed supply chain of strategiic and other innovative materials.
5) Cooperation in the joint marketing of products, protection systems and technologies in NATO member states and partner-friendly countries.
6) Joint marketing of the HOPLITE (4x4) Wheeled Armored Vehicle of EODH.
7) Cooperation in the field of program management and implementation.


KMW signs new framework agreement with EODH | Eurosatory 2022 News Official Online Daily | Defence security exhibitions 2022 show daily news category (armyrecognition.com)

Citation :

Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles and Michelin launch cooperation agreement


Defense News June 2022 Global Security army industry


POSTED ON TUESDAY, 28 JUNE 2022 14:05

---

Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles (RMMV) and French tyre manufacturer Michelin have entered into a mutual agreement on closer cooperation in the domains of defense vehicles mobility. In order to honour this next level of collaboration, RMMV and Michelin have officially signed the agreement at Michelin’s booth at Eurosatory 2022 exhibition in Paris. The companies were represented by Michael Wittlinger, Chief Executive Officer Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles, and Bénédicte De Bonnechose, Executive Vice President, Michelin Long-Distance and Urban Transportation, Europe Regions.

---

Exchange of customer experiences and coordinated development of
tyres and other systems may be part of future common projects.
(Picture source: Army Recognition)

---

Motivated by the same values and desire to innovate in their respective areas of expertise, both companies are looking to further discuss opportunities and develop solutions that aim to respond to customers’ expectations. Exchange of customer experiences and coordinated development of tyres and other systems may be part of future common projects.

“This agreement is an important step in paving the way for a more active and diversified collaboration”, said Michael Wittlinger. “Working with Michelin has proven fruitful for a long period of time. Now, we are happy to take the next step together towards deepening the existing bonds.”

Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles is one of the world’s leading providers of defence solutions in the field of logistic land mobility. Together with its predecessor companies, the joint venture of Rheinmetall AG and MAN Truck & Bus AG builds on a history of more than 100 years of engineering and production of military, militarised and commercial trucks. The HX family of tactical trucks is RMMV´s combat-proven flagship; over 15,000 4x4 to 10x10 models in various configurations currently serve 20 nations worldwide. High-quality standards, unique truck know-how, and industry-leading innovation build the foundation for a strong global market presence.

As one of the largest tyre manufacturers in the world, Michelin develops high-tech products and digital services for the mobility of people and goods of tomorrow. The company is present in 171 countries with around 114,000 employees. Michelin has been rooted in Germany for over 100 years and produces at five locations.

---

The companies were represented by Michael Wittlinger, Chief Executive Officer
Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles, and Bénédicte De Bonnechose, Executive
Vice President, Michelin Long-Distance and Urban Transportation, Europe Regions.
(Picture source: Rheinmetall).

Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles and Michelin launch cooperation agreement | Defense News June 2022 Global Security army industry | Defense Security global news industry army year 2022 | Archive News year (armyrecognition.com)

Citation :

Rheinmetall from Germany develops new AEV3 Kodiak engineer vehicle with more protection and firepower


weapons defence industry military technology UK

POSTED ON THURSDAY, 14 JULY 2022 16:45

German company Rheinmetall unveils the latest variant of its AEV3 Kodiak, a tracked engineer armored vehicle based on the Leopard 2 MBT (Main Battle Tank) chassis. The new version of the AEV3 Kodiak is fitted with a new add-on armor package to increase protection against guided missiles and rocket-propelled grenades.

---

The new third-generation engineer armored vehicle AEV3 Kodiak.
(Picture source Army Recognition)

---

The AEV3 Kodiak offers a high level of ballistic protection and also integrates mine protection, ABC protective ventilation, and a crew room with a heating and cooling system.

The AEV3 Kodiak was developed by the German company Rheinmetall to offer a third-generation tracked armored engineer vehicle equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and offering high levels of protection and mobility in the entire field of application.

The AEV3 Kodiak is the perfect tool for army engineers tasked with erecting or breaking obstacles on the battlefield, including breaking minefields. The AEV3 KODIAK is also particularly suitable for disaster relief domestically and abroad. In addition, the vehicle is able to provide electrical and hydraulic energy for external tools, e.g. for additional work lights or hydraulically powered hand tools

The AEV3 KODIAK combines modern engineering technology with the tried-and-tested components from the LEOPARD2 battle tank. The vehicle has a crew of two or three who can use all the engineer systems under full armor protection.

The AEV3 KODIAK has an articulated arm excavator mounted at the front of the vehicle, including further excavator tools, an adjustable bulldozer blade, and a flexible winch system. The total weight remains the same despite the extensive equipment in the MLC70 class. Using the mine breakthrough kit, the crew can quickly convert the KODIAK into a mine breakthrough system with a mine clearance plough, signature duplicator, and marking equipment. Additional equipment, such as combat control systems as well as radio and intercom devices and other accessories are integrated according to customer specifications.

For its self-protection, the latest variant of the AEV3 Kodiak is fitted with a NATTER remotely operated weapon station mounted on the roof of the crew compartment. This weapon station can be armed with a 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine gun. The carbon-based mount technology enables a significant reduction in weight and vibration, which, in conjunction with the shape and design, offers a significantly reduced signature. The integrated vision system (FlexEye) represents the latest day and night vision (IR) sensor technology and thus enables the simultaneous, weather-independent display of several targets.

The AEV3 KODIAK has a length of 10.2 m, a width of 4.30 m, and a height of 2.90 m. It has a combat weight of MLC 80. It can reach a top road speed of 60 km. In terms of mobility, the AEV3 KODIAK can negotiate a gradient of 60% and a side slope of 30%. It can climb a vertical obstacle of 1.10 m in height. It can cross a trench with a length of 2.5 m or a water obstacle of 2.25m depth.

---

The new generation of AEV3 Kodiak is fitted with an add-on armor to increase protection against
guided missiles and rocket-propelled grenades. (Picture source Army Recognition)

Rheinmetall from Germany develops new AEV3 Kodiak engineer vehicle with more protection and firepower | weapons defence industry military technology UK | analysis focus army defence military industry army (armyrecognition.com)

Citation :

 KMW from Germany demonstrates in Czech Republic its Leopard 2A7+ tank fitted with Trophy APS


Defense News September 2022 Global Security army industry

POSTED ON MONDAY, 19 SEPTEMBER 2022 15:52


During the NATO Days event that was held in the Czech Republic, on 17 and 18 September 2022, German company Krauss Maffei Wegmann (KMW) demonstrates the Leopard 2A7+ Main Battle Tank (MBT) equipped with the Trophy APS (Active Protection System) developed by the Israeli company Rafael.



German company KMW Krauss-Maffei Wegmann demonstrates its Leopard 2A7+ main battle tank during the NATO Days 2022 in the Czech
Republic.  (Picture source Ronkainen Twitter account)


Citing information published by the Army Recognition editorial team on August 2022, Germany will supply the Czech Republic with 14 Leopard 2A4 MBTs and one Büffel armored recovery vehicle from industrial stocks. This Leopard 2A4 tanks delivery agreement to the Czech Republic will be in exchange for the supply of Czech army T-72 MBTs to Ukraine.

Citing information from the international press agency Reuters on May 18, 2022, the Czech Republic would be in talks with Germany to acquire 50 Leopard 2A7+ tanks in the coming years. With this demonstration of the Leopard 2A7+ during the NATO Days in the Czech Republic, the German company KMW (Krauss Maffei Wegmann) wants to strengthen its commercial position.

The Leopard 2A7+ is the latest generation of main battle tank in the Leopard 2 family which is now in service with Hungary, Denmark, and Qatar. It was first shown to the public during the Eurosatory 2010 defense exhibition in France, featuring the label "Developed by Krauss-Maffei Wegmann KMW - tested and qualified by German MoD (Ministry of Defense)"?

Fitted the Trophy APS (Active Protection System), the Leopard 2A7+ is one of the most protected main battle tanks in the world. In fact, the tank incorporates a modular protection kit, increased mobility, improved sustainability, enhanced recce-abilities, and even more precise deployment of its various weapons. Asymmetrical threats from terrorist groups, IEDs, or individuals have created a dangerous environment in the deployment theatres.

The Trophy is an Active Protection System (APS) fully designed and developed by the Israeli company Rafael. It offers 360° azimuth protection and high angle elevation coverage while maintaining user-defined safety zones for friendly troops on the ground. It protects a tank from threats ranging from rockets to ATGMs and High-Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT) rounds.

The layout of the Leopard 2A7+ is standard for a modern main battle tank with the driver position at the front of the hull, the turret in the middle with a commander, gunner and loader, and the powerpack at the rear.

The main armament of the Leopard 2A7+ consists of one 120mm L55/L44 smoothbore gun, which can fire all standard NATO ammunition as well as the new programmable 120mm HE-rounds. The roof of the turret is equipped with a FLW 200 remotely controlled weapon station armed with one 7.62mm coaxial machine gun.

The Leopard 2A7+ also incorporates the latest generation of sight and fire control systems which can be used to target mobile or static threats during day and night.

The Leopard 2A7+ is powered by an MTU MB 873 diesel engine developing 1,500 hp. The tank can reach a maximum road speed of 72 km/h with a maximum cruising range of 450 km.


https://www.armyrecognition.com/defense_news_september_2022_global_security_army_industry/kmw_from_germany_demonstrates_in_czech_republic_its_leopard_2a7_tank_fitted_with_trophy_aps.html  

Rheinmetall shows its next-gen Infantry Fighting Vehicle 'Lynx OMFV' featuring an unmanned 50mm turret and kamikaze drones. (OMFV - Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle)@jpg2t785 @jesusfroman @theragex pic.twitter.com/lkJnHDxX34

— Felix Woessner (@FeWoessner) October 10, 2022

Citation :

A D20 engine with 440 horsepower, semi-automatic transmission and a heavy armour cabin.

Could @RheinmetallAG's MAN HX2 be the next all-terrain truck for the @BritishArmy?

Read more here https://t.co/4wzfTs99un pic.twitter.com/dJ4PEW52I0

— Forces News (@ForcesNews) October 12, 2022

With expertise in open-systems, vehicle mission systems, cybersecurity and communications, we are proud to partner with @RheinmetallAG to create America’s #nextgen infantry fighting vehicle.

Learn more via @MarcusReports at @DefenseOne: https://t.co/XbBEi9roJc #AUSA2022

— L3Harris (@L3HarrisTech) October 13, 2022

Citation :

KMW Krauss-Maffei Wegmann to possibly co-produce Leopard tanks with Greek company Metka


Defense News October 2022 Global Security army industry

POSTED ON TUESDAY, 18 OCTOBER 2022 14:29


According to the Greek City Times echoing Gerhard Hegmann in Die Welt, there are plans for Krauss-Maffei-Wegmann to produce Leopard tanks with a Greek company. According to the report, “against the background of the war in Ukraine and a complex campaign of circular exchange of weapons systems, a major project is now in the works. It is about the possibility of additional co-production or modernization of hundreds of older Leopard tanks in Greece". "In response to Die Welt's question, KMW essentially confirmed the talks with Metka, but did not provide further details," the report added.



Leopard 1A5 Main Battle Tank (Picture source: KMW)


Greek City Times writes that a statement from KMW said only that "discussions concern the Leopard 1A5 and Leopard 2 while plans to produce the tanks steel hull are under discussion. However, there are no plans to create new Leopard production units or even to relocate production units from Germany to Greece," the statement said.

However, the extensive report also refers to the upcoming visit of Chancellor Olaf Soltz to Greece on October 27, according to Greek media, which within the overall framework of the exchange of weapons systems with the aim of supporting Ukraine acquires a highly symbolic value, the Greek City Times comments.

In addition to the KMW group for Leopard tanks, Rheinmetall also seems to be interested in Greece, since it "pushes" to have its KF41 Lynx purchased for the Hellenic army.


http://www.armyrecognition.com/defense_news_october_2022_global_security_army_industry/kmw_krauss-maffei_wegmann_to_possibly_co-produce_leopard_tanks_with_greek_company_metka.html

Citation :

Rheinmetall takes over Spanish company Expal Systems to add new ammunition production capacity


POSTED ON MONDAY, 14 NOVEMBER 2022 10:58

---

Rheinmetall AG on November 14 concluded a purchase contract with MaxamCorp. Holding S.L. of Madrid to acquire the entire share capital of Expal Systems S.A of Madrid, a globally renowned ammunition maker. Completion of the transaction, for which a closing date in summer 2023 is sought, is subject to approval by the competition authorities and other regulatory checks. The purchase price agreed between Rheinmetall and MaxamCorp., which is due after closing, is based on an enterprise value of €1.2 billion.

---

Firing of 155mm rounds called ER02 BB (Base Bleed, extended range) from EXPAL (Picture source:
Spanish army)

---

In making this acquisition, the Düsseldorf-based technology enterprise is seeking to bolster its core weapon, ammunition and propellant business in a sustained way, with increased spare production capacity and an expanded product portfolio as the prime focal points.

In a dynamic market situation propelled by massive demand for military equipment in multiple countries, the acquisition provides Rheinmetall with swift access to significantly greater capacity. Given the expected large increase in demand from numerous nations, Rheinmetall wants to position itself as strongly as possible to address the anticipated inflow of new requests for tender for ammunition purchases. Of special strategic importance to Rheinmetall in this context is the resulting access to extra production capacity for propulsions and charges, which are subject to bottlenecks in Europe in the meantime.

Because the product spectrums of the two companies complement each other so well, the acquisition substantially augments Rheinmetall’s existing range of products, especially in the fast-growing market for artillery and mortar ammunition as well as mortar systems. The buyout also adds to Rheinmetall’s portfolio in the field of fuses and rocket propulsion systems, for example, as well as in medium-calibre ammunition and aircraft armament, while simultaneously reducing the Group’s dependence on suppliers for some industrial intermediates and ammunition components. In important areas like purchasing and sales, synergies will have a positive impact on costs, which will also benefit customers.

Thanks to this acquisition, Rheinmetall is gaining a valuable strategic foothold in Spain, and thus direct access to this important market. Rheinmetall sees maintaining the company’s existing technology and staff as essential; all operational locations (Trubia, Burgos, Navalmoral, El Gordo, Albacete and Murcia in Spain as well as Texarkana, Texas in the USA) are therefore to remain open.

Expal Systems S.A. expects sales in FY 2022/23 to be around €400 million. The company’s total capacity offers scope for potential annual sales of €700 to €800 million.


Rheinmetall takes over Spanish company Expal Systems to add new ammunition production capacity | Defense News November 2022 Global Security army industry | Defense Security global news industry army year 2022 | Archive News year (armyrecognition.com)

Citation :

Discover new German-made Fuchs A9 High Roof 6x6 armored vehicle


POSTED ON THURSDAY, 24 NOVEMBER 2022 19:48


German company Rheinmetall presents its new Fuchs A9 High Roof, an improved version of the Fuchs 6x6 armored vehicle that entered into service with the German army in December 1979. The new version features several improvements including a new powerpack, modern digital electrical vehicle architecture, and significantly improved characteristics in mobility, protection, and payload.

---

New German-made Rheinmetall Fuchs A9 High Roof in ambulance version at Eurosatory defense exhibition in Paris, France, June 2022.
(Picture source Army Recognition)

Numerous variants of the Fuchs/Fox armored transport vehicle have formed part of the German army military inventory ever since 1979, with over a hundred once deployed in Afghanistan. Thanks to its operational versatility and high reliability, the Fuchs/Fox has always been popular with the German army. Throughout its service life, the vehicle has been continuously perfected.

To date, some 1,600 Fuchs/Fox vehicles have been built. Today the armed forces of numerous nations place their trust in multiple variants of this tried-and-true system, including armored personnel carriers, mobile command posts, and vehicles specially configured for an NBC reconnaissance role.

The FUCHSA9 upgrade solves all upcoming obsolescence of the aging FUCHS legacy fleet, currently under operation with nine international FUCHS user nations. This allows customers to keep up their FUCHS vehicle fleet operational until 2040 and beyond.

The new Fuchs A9 High Roof was unveiled by the German company Rheinmetall during the defense exhibition Eurosatory that was held in Paris (France) in June 2022. The design of the original Fuchs has been upgraded with a high roof and a new armor package. The “high roof” variant comes with an increased internal height of 1.60m and offers the largest possible interior volume to enable the integration of space-demanding mission kits, like

The new high-roof version of the Fuchs/Fox can serve in roles ranging from Command Post to armored ambulance. The ambulance version was displayed at the booth of Rheinmetall during the edition 2022 of Eurosatory.


The armored field ambulance version of the new high-roofed Fuchs/Fox can carry four wounded personnel, two lying down and two seated. Furthermore, the vehicle is equipped with an advanced 360-degree panoramic vision system. Featuring fusion and a daytime/night-time capability, it substantially enhances the crew’s situational awareness. A NATO Generic Vehicle Architecture-conformant connection to additional sensors or a weapons station is possible, as is the use of virtual reality goggles, which enable the crew to “see” through the armor. 

The Fuchs A9 High Roof is fitted with a new armor package to increase protection against new modern ballistic threats as well as Improvised-Explosive-Devices (IED). The front of the hull is fitted with a large windscreen which is also provided protection against the firing of small arms and artillery shell splinters. Each side at the front of the hull is equipped with a door that has a small bulletproof window in the upper part.

The modernized Fuchs A9 High Roof features a new, more powerful engine, a new transfer case, a new brake system, and a digital electrical system. All these things improve the vehicle’s off-road performance and make it easier to operate. The vehicle is powered by an MTU V6 Diesel engine developing 455 hp coupled to a ZF Automatic transmission. It can run at a maximum road speed of 100 km/h.

In terms of technical features, the Fuchs A9 High Roof has a Gross Vehicle Weight of 24,500 kg with a maximum payload of 7,500 kg. It has a length of 7.2 m, a width of 3.0 m, and a height of 2.84m. The vehicle can negotiate a gradient of 60% and a side slope of 30%. It can also climb vertical obstacles of more than 60 cm, cross a 1.2 m wide trench and cross a fording depth of 1.5 m.

Discover new German-made Fuchs A9 High Roof 6x6 armored vehicle | weapons defence industry military technology UK | analysis focus army defence military industry army (armyrecognition.com)

Citation :

KMW from Germany starts production of RCH 155 155mm howitzers for Ukraine


POSTED ON MONDAY, 02 JANUARY 2023 09:57

---

According to a Tweet published on December 31, 2022, by "Nicholas Drummond", a Defense industry consultant, the German company Kraus-Maffei Wegmann has started the production of the RCH 155 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzers for Ukraine.

---

German-made RCH 155 155mm wheeled self-propelled produced by Krauss-Maffei
Wegmann KMW. (Picture source Army Recognition)

---

On December 7, 2022, the German Ministry of Defense updated its list of military equipment that will be delivered to Ukraine. The most important addition concerned the delivery of 18 RCH 155 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzers manufactured by KMW (Kraus-Maffei Wegmann).

The RCH 155 is a 155mm self-propelled howitzer which was designed and developed by the German company KMW (Krauss-Maffei Wegmann) based on the chassis of the Boxer 8x8 armored vehicle. It was unveiled for the first time to the public in June 2014 during the International Defense Exhibition in Paris, France. Ukraine will be the first foreign customer to receive the RCH 155 which is not yet in service in any country.

The RCH 155 represents a major evolution in the field of artillery systems, in fact, the vehicle uses the main components of the German-made Boxer, a wheeled armored vehicle fitted with a fully automatic AGM (Artillery Gun Mount) which is mounted at the rear of the Boxer hull. The turret is armed with one 155mm/L52 cannon coupled to an automatic loading system which is also used for the PzH 2000 155mm tracked self-propelled howitzer.

The RCH 155 offers the capabilities of a modern artillery system with only a crew of two including a driver and gunner. With a combat weight of only 39 tons, it is a lighter, more flexible, and long-range artillery weapon for all areas of use which provides a high level of protection for the crew.

The Artillery Gun Module of the RCH 155 consists of an armored system and the gun weapon station is unmanned and provides automated navigation and fire control, and features fully automated gun laying, projectile, and charge loading. These capabilities deliver a unique 360° efficiency range across all elevations and up to six modular charges without the necessity to use support during firing. The vehicle carries a total of 30 ready-to-fire 155mm ammunition and charges.

The RCH 155 has a firing range of 40 km with conventional 155mm artillery ammunition and up to 54 km with V-LAP (Velocity-enhanced Long-range Artillery) also called extended-range ammunition. It can also fire guided ammunition such as the Italian VULCANO or the American EXCALIBUR.

The is based on the 8x8 suspension and motorization of the Boxer multi-role armored vehicle offering a high level of mobility on the road and off-road conditions. The vehicle is powered by an MTU V8 19TE20/21 developing 816 hp coupled to an automatic transmission. It can reach a maximum road speed of 100 km/h with a maximum cruising range of 700 km.


KMW from Germany starts production of RCH 155 155mm howitzers for Ukraine | Defense News January 2023 Global Security army industry | Defense Security global news industry army year 2023 | Archive News year (armyrecognition.com)

Citation :

MAR  4

Rheinmetall from Germany negotiates with Ukraine construction of tank factory to build KF51 Panther

According to information published on March 4, 2023, by the German newspaper website "Spiegel" the German company Rheinmetall is negotiating the construction of a tank factory in Ukraine with an investment of €200 million to build the new KF51 Panther Main Battle Tank (MBT). 

The new German-made KF51 Panther MBT Main Battle Tank is designed and developed by the German company Rheinmetall.  (Picture source Army Recognition) Rheinmetall from Germany negotiates with Ukraine construction of tank factory to build KF51 Panther | World Defence News

Citation :

JUN  28

Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall to develop GMARS European rocket launcher

Paris, France, June 28, 2023 - An official representative from Lockheed Martin revealed to Defense News that Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall have formed a partnership to develop the GMARS, a European rocket launcher built upon Lockheed's High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS). The primary objective of this collaborative effort is to offer a contemporary alternative to Germany's outdated MARS 2 MLRS (Multiple Launch Rocket System). 

Artist drawing of the future European project of GMARS European rocket launcher. (Picture source Lockheed Martin) Lockheed Martin et Rheinmetall vont développer le lance-roquettes européen GMARS | Nouvelles de la défense mondiale (worlddefencenews.blogspot.com)