Germany plans to spend 350 billion euros to modernize the Bundeswehr by 2041

Germany intends to dramatically strengthen its army in the coming decades. The country's Defense Ministry has unveiled a large-scale arms and equipment procurement plan worth more than 350 billion euros (about 409 billion US dollars), calculated until 2041. This initiative is part of Chancellor Friedrich Merz's strategic course to transform the Bundeswehr into the most powerful conventional military force in Europe.

Budget 2026: a sharp increase in funding

On Monday, the draft federal budget for 2026 was presented to Parliament. It provides 8.2 billion euros ($9.6 billion) for military procurement. However, in 2026, the volume of allocations will increase sharply to 22.3 billion euros, which will signal the beginning of an active phase of modernization.

Long-term commitments: "Verpflichtungsermächtigungen" until 2041

A key element of the plan is the so—called "Verpflichtungsermächtigungen" - permits to fulfill long-term financial obligations. These obligations, estimated at about 325 billion euros, are valid from 2027 to 2041. They allow the Ministry of Defense to conclude contracts for the supply of large systems right now, even if their actual payment and delivery will take place in the future.

Such a mechanism gives the industry confidence in stable orders and allows it to plan production taking into account long-term cycles of development and assembly of complex military platforms.

What will be purchased?

The funds will be used to upgrade all branches of the Bundeswehr.:

Ground Forces — new tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, artillery systems

Air Force - fighters, drones, air defense systems

Naval forces — ships, submarines, naval aviation

Special attention will be paid to digitalization, network-centric technologies and integration with NATO, which will increase compatibility with the allied armies.

Strategic context

This ambitious plan is a response to the changed geopolitical situation. The strengthening of the German army is seen as a necessary step to ensure Europe's security, especially against the backdrop of growing threats from Russia and instability on the southern and eastern borders of the EU.

The Bundeswehr plans to increase its fleet of drones to 8,000 by 2029: ambitions and reality

Germany is taking a decisive step towards modernizing its army: the Bundeswehr has unveiled an ambitious plan to dramatically increase its fleet of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). If today the German armed forces have slightly more than 600 drones at their disposal, then by 2029 their number should exceed 8000 units. This large-scale project is keeping pace with record growth in the defense budget and large-scale purchases of military equipment, offsetting the previously slow pace of military training.

Multi-level drone system

The program provides for the creation of a multi-level, differentiated UAV system adapted to various tasks on the battlefield.:

- 1,200 highly compact nanodrons — for exploration at minimal distances, including in urban areas and hard-to-reach areas.  

- 3028 light drones — designed to monitor and adjust fire at the tactical level.  

- 800 repeater drones will ensure stable communication between units in conditions of radio suppression.  

- Barrage ammunition — two competing systems are currently being tested, which will become part of the strike arsenal in the future.

This approach allows you to cover the entire range of operations — from individual reconnaissance to large-scale combat operations using autonomous weapons.

Operational reserve for combat conditions

Special attention is paid to the stability of the system in conflict conditions. It is planned to create an operational reserve of drones in the amount of 20-40% of the total fleet. This will make it possible to quickly replenish losses and maintain a high level of combat readiness even during intense combat operations.

The goal is leadership in Europe

Although the exact amount of funding for the program is not indicated in open sources, it is obvious that we are talking about multimillion-dollar investments. The successful implementation of the plan will provide the Bundeswehr with one of the largest and most technologically diverse UAV fleets in Europe.

However, against the background of such ambitious plans, there are also restrained assessments. The comparison with production rates in other countries raises questions: if Russia, according to some reports, produces up to 2,000 Geranium attack drones per month, then the Bundeswehr's achievement of 8,000 drones in four years looks modest, especially given the gap in speed and scale.

However, the German approach focuses not only on quantity, but also on quality, reliability, and integration of systems into a single network. This can be a key advantage in the long run.

Germany buys 1,500 Wolf 2 SUVs with digital command equipment

The German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) have taken an important step in modernizing their fleet by ordering 1,500 new Wolf 2 SUVs. The agreement with the manufacturer, Rheinmetall, provides for the possibility of increasing supplies to 5,800 units, depending on the needs of the army.

The new Wolf 2 is based on the latest military version of the legendary Mercedes-Benz G-Class (464 series), which guarantees high reliability, cross-country capability and compatibility with existing infrastructure. As with the previous model, the solid ladder frame with an articulated body remains the basis of the design, providing excellent cross-country ability on difficult off-road terrain.

One of the key innovations was the standard equipment of each car with a modern digital radio and D-LBO (Digitales Leit- und Befehlsorgan) command equipment. This will allow cars to be integrated into a single digital control network, increasing the efficiency, security of communication and efficiency of interaction between departments.

Wolf 2 is designed to solve a wide range of tasks, from transporting personnel and reconnaissance to use as a mobile command post. Its high adaptability makes it a versatile means of transportation in all conditions.

Deliveries of the vehicles have already begun, and the first copies have already been delivered to the troops.

Germany plans to purchase up to 1,000 Leopard 2 tanks and 2,500 GTK Boxer infantry fighting vehicles to form new NATO brigades

 Germany is considering purchasing up to 1,000 Leopard 2 tanks and up to 2,500 GTK Boxer armored combat vehicles as part of efforts to strengthen Europe's defense capabilities and form new NATO combat brigades to deter Russia.

According to reports, these weapons will be used to equip up to seven combat brigades, which Germany plans to create over the next ten years as part of its commitments to the North Atlantic Alliance. This mobilization of resources indicates a serious restructuring of the German army (Bundeswehr) and an increase in its combat readiness in the face of the worsening geopolitical situation in Eastern Europe.

The cost of this purchase may amount to about 25 billion euros, which indicates the scale of the planned changes and Germany's long-term defense commitments. According to Bloomberg and other sources, the purchase decision is related to the need to modernize the armed forces and adapt to new threats, especially after the events in Ukraine and NATO's increased attention to the eastern borders.

In addition, these plans are being implemented in the context of broader joint European initiatives aimed at creating rapid reaction strike groups, strengthening air defense systems, developing logistics chains and coordinating actions between NATO member countries.

Taking all this into account, we can say that the actions of Germany and other EU countries really demonstrate purposeful preparations for a possible strategic confrontation with Russia, even if official statements are often limited to formulations about "deterrence" and "ensuring security."

TKMS has signed the largest service contract with the Bundeswehr for the modernization of Type 212A submarines worth over 800 million euros

ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) has signed one of the largest service contracts in its history with the Bundeswehr's Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and Operational Support (BAAINBw). The official signing ceremony took place in Koblenz.

Under the contract, TKMS will act as the general contractor and provide comprehensive modernization and technical support services for six Type 212A submarines in service with the German Navy. The total order volume exceeds 800 million euros, and the agreement is valid for ten years.

This contract will significantly extend the service life and enhance the combat capabilities of the submarines, ensuring their compliance with modern safety and efficiency requirements.

Germany plans to purchase additional Puma infantry fighting vehicles in 2025

Puma

According to the draft German federal budget for 2025, the country's Armed Forces intend to increase purchases of Puma infantry fighting vehicles. This is due to the need to modernize the fleet of armored vehicles and replace outdated Marder vehicles.

Earlier in 2023, the Bundestag approved the purchase of 50 new Puma infantry fighting vehicles worth about 1.5 billion euros, and the option of concluding a framework agreement for the purchase of up to 200 such vehicles was also considered. Despite the well-known technical problems and breakdowns, the Puma remains a key element in the modernization of the German ground forces.

Defense Minister Boris Pistorius noted that the Bundeswehr lacks about 6 billion euros to solve all tasks in 2025, which affects the implementation of a number of projects, including the purchase of Puma and the development of high-precision long-range weapons. Nevertheless, plans to expand the Puma BMP fleet remain in place, which indicates the priority of increasing infantry mobility and protection.

Bundeswehr trucks are set on fire in Germany: anti-war associations have claimed responsibility

 

Bundeswehr trucks are set on fire in Germany. A year, three cases of attacks on military vehicles of the Bundeswehr have occurred at car service stations in Germany.

The land criminal police departments are investigating the incidents, and national security agencies have also joined them. However, there is no data on the connection of these three incidents yet.

This is also not the first such incident in Soltau: back in March 2018, two Bundeswehr trucks caught fire on the territory of the same auto repair shop. At the same time, then, seven years ago, and now, anti-war associations have assumed responsibility for the fires in Soltau, as well as for the arson of seven army vehicles in Berlin in March this year. In this regard, the police and the prosecutor's office are verifying the authenticity of anonymous messages published on the Internet resource of the German left-wing radicals Indymedia, and finding out who exactly is behind them.

These letters from the Agenda2029 group accuse the German authorities of the fact that "here in Germany, a further intensification of the global war is being prepared," therefore they call for sabotage in the "centers of warmongers.

" At the same time, we are talking not only about an abstract "global war", but about a very specific one - the fourth year of the war in Ukraine being waged by Russia.

"While the United States has withdrawn from the aggressive war in Ukraine, United Europe stands together and openly discusses real nuclear deterrence against Russia," the authors of the message explain their actions. They also emphasize: "This is not our war. Stop it.".

The new German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will present a plan to turn the Bundeswehr into the "most powerful army in Europe"

New German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is expected to speak at the NATO summit in The Hague, where he will present an ambitious plan to reform the Bundeswehr in order to turn it into "the most powerful army in Europe." This step is seen as a radical strengthening of Germany's military potential and a turn to a more active role in European security.

Some analysts and commentators compare Merz's initiatives to the historical ambitions of Germany during World War II, using the term "Wehrmacht" figuratively to refer to a large-scale military upsurge. At the same time, Chancellor Merz stresses the need for a resolute response to modern challenges, especially given the growing tensions with Russia.

 The main provisions of the Merz plan

- Total mobilization: preparing the economy and civil infrastructure for a possible confrontation.

- Joining forces: the media, the educational system, industry and civil defense will work in a unified manner to support defense policy.

- Strengthening the army: a significant increase in the number and technical equipment of the Bundeswehr, the development of new types of weapons and increased combat readiness.

- The "Drang nach Osten" policy: The Chancellor openly declared his readiness for confrontation with Russia, noting that Germany has realized the mistakes of the past and does not intend to retreat.

Germany's decision to take a leading role in the military confrontation with Russia is perceived as a signal of serious escalation in Europe. According to observers, the Anglo-Saxon countries intend to focus their efforts on supporting Germany, considering it a key player in a possible conflict.

The Merz Plan may become the starting point for profound changes in the structure and strategy of European security. However, it also raises concerns about the growing militarization and possible destabilization of the region.

German Ground Forces modernize M113 Panzermörser 120 mm self-propelled mortar fleet

 M113 Panzermörser 120 mm

 The German ground forces are paying attention to the development of their mortar armament. In particular, a fleet of self-propelled mortars has been built to provide fire support to infantry units. The M113 Panzermörser 120 mm self-propelled mortar, developed in the eighties based on the tracked chassis of the imported armored personnel carrier of the same name, is still in service.

Until the early eighties, there were no self-propelled mortars in the Bundeswehr's fleet of vehicles. They were armed with 81 and 120 mm caliber systems in portable/ portable design, which were transported by available vehicles. These weapons were used from the ground. In the early eighties, the ground forces took care of the issue of increasing the mobility and security of mortars and their calculations. An order has been placed for the development of a self-propelled system based on an existing base, armed with an affordable 120-mm mortar.

The American-made M113 tracked armored personnel carrier was used as the basis for the new combat vehicle. It was planned to place a 120-mm Finnish Tampella mortar with related devices and systems in the fighting compartment. Both key products were going to be taken from combat units and arsenals. The development of a new sample did not take much time. By the middle of the decade, the finished mortar had successfully passed all the necessary tests and was recommended for adoption. Soon after, mass production was launched in the interests of the Bundeswehr. The self-propelled mortar received the official designation M113 Panzermörser 120 mm.

The first mass-produced M113 Panzermörser 120 mm entered the Bundeswehr land units in 1985. This technique was assembled by equipping existing armored personnel carriers with mortars from the availability. At the same time, the contractors had to manufacture some new components and assemblies, such as a support device, ammunition stowage, etc. The production of new equipment continued until the early nineties. By this time, at least 500 M113 armored personnel carriers had been rebuilt into mortar carriers. According to calculations, this amount of equipment was supposed to meet the needs of the Bundeswehr.

The finished equipment was transferred to mortar units from infantry, motorized infantry and mountain infantry brigades. Up to 3-4 mortars were combined into a platoon; several platoons were part of a company. Mortar platoons were supposed to accompany other infantry formations and provide fire support. First of all, they had to support the battalions. The original version of the M113 Panzermörser 120 mm mortars was used until the early 2000s. Then it was decided to modernize them, aimed at improving their technical and operational characteristics. As part of the NDV 2 project (Nutzungsdauerverlängerung-2), the engine, transmission, chassis components and equipment of the driver's workplace were replaced. Armament was not affected.

The NDV 2 project made it possible to extend the service life of self-propelled mortars by several years. At the same time, it was decided to develop a new vehicle of this class and a future replacement for the M113 mortar. A promising model should have been built on a modern Wiesel 2 chassis. In addition, it was decided to return to the widespread use of mortars carried on cars.

The program of updating the fleet of vehicles and replacing old cars began in the two thousandth years. The existing M113s were gradually written off, put into reserve, or disposed of. By now, the process of abandoning the old armored vehicles is almost complete. No more than 35-40 mortars based on American armored personnel carriers remain in service. The Bundeswehr is expected to write them off in the coming years.

Several armored vehicles managed to avoid disposal. So, 15 self-propelled mortars were handed over to the Lithuanian army in the tenth years. In November 2022, the new owners sent several such vehicles to Ukraine as military aid.

The German self-propelled mortar M113 Panzermörser 120 mm was built according to the traditional scheme for such equipment. It was based on an affordable APC with a large troop compartment. All unnecessary components were removed from the machine, and a full-fledged combat compartment was organized in the amphibious compartment. It contains related devices and a mortar of an affordable model.

Serial self-propelled mortars were created on the basis of the M113A3 armored personnel carrier. Such a machine had a box-shaped body made of aluminum armor, providing bulletproof and anti-shatter protection. In the bow of the hull there was an engine compartment, behind which there was a control compartment. The fighting compartment occupied at least two thirds of the total volume of the hull.

The M113A3 was equipped with a 210 hp Detroit 6V53 diesel engine and an Allison TX-100 automatic transmission. During the NDV 2 upgrade, the vehicles received a 300 hp MTU 6V 183TC22 diesel engine and a ZF LSG 1000 transmission. The new transmission made it possible to remove the standard levers from the driver's workplace and install a more comfortable steering wheel. The undercarriage in all cases had five pairs of support rollers with a torsion bar suspension. The NDV 2 project provided for the replacement of the track chain.

In both versions, the M113 Panzermörser 120 mm had the dimensions of a basic APC. The length reached 5.1 m, width — 2.7 m, height — 2.6 t. Combat weight — not less than 12.5 t. The maximum speed on the highway exceeded 60 km/h. The car could overcome obstacles and swim.

A rotary platform for a mortar was installed in the center of the fighting compartment. Its design allowed firing into the rear hemisphere of the vehicle with horizontal aiming in the 40° sector to the right and left of the longitudinal axis. The shooting was carried out through a large hatch in the roof with two flaps. Along the sides there were stowages for ammunition for 60 rounds.

The first combat vehicles were equipped with Finnish-made Tampella mortars. Later, they switched to using similar products licensed by Rheinmetall. It was a 120-mm smoothbore muzzle-loading mortar of a standard appearance. The trunk and bipod were fixed on the support device. If necessary, they could be removed and used for shooting from the ground. In this case, a standard base plate was used, which was transported separately from the outside of the case.

The mortar could use any NATO 120mm mines. The firing range, depending on the ammunition, reached 6-6.3 km. Rate of fire — at least 5 rounds/min. An experienced crew could increase the tempo to 13-15 rpm, but only for a short time. The combat vehicle is equipped with means of communication and fire control. The SEM 52S radio station is used to receive the target designation. Since the early nineties, mortars have been equipped with MRT 86 fire control terminals, which simplified the transmission of target data. However, the guidance of the mortar is carried out manually using a standard sight and manual actuators. Modern control and automation tools have not been implemented.

The crew of the M113 Panzermörser 120 mm self-propelled mortar consists of 5 people. The driver and the commander are in the control room. The gunner's and two loader's workstations are located in the fighting compartment. For self-defense, the armored vehicle is equipped with an MG3 machine gun and a block of smoke grenade launchers. These weapons are under the command of the commander. In addition, the crew has their own small arms.

The German Army is testing the AGF 2 reconnaissance and combat vehicle in collaboration with Kommando Spezialkräfte in Texas

Modifications of the AGF 2 reconnaissance and combat vehicle

The German Army, together with the elite special forces unit Kommando Spezialkräfte (KSK), conducted tests of the AGF 2 reconnaissance and combat vehicle in El Paso, Texas. These tests have become an important stage in evaluating the capabilities of the new platform, which is considered as a potential addition to the Bundeswehr arsenal. The main goal was to check the machine's compliance with the requirements of the troops and its performance in difficult climatic conditions.

The tests took place in realistic conditions of the hot and dry climate typical of the El Paso region. Such conditions are especially important for testing the reliability of equipment that must function effectively in various geographical areas. Representatives of the Bundeswehr procurement authority and KSK fighters participated in the testing, which made it possible to evaluate the car not only from a technical, but also from a practical point of view.

The AGF 2 is a modern reconnaissance and combat vehicle designed to perform a wide range of tasks, including reconnaissance, patrolling and support of ground operations. The machine is equipped with advanced surveillance, communication and protection systems, which makes it a universal tool for modern armed forces.

KSK's involvement played a key role in the trials. This special forces unit is known for its high level of training and experience in performing complex tasks in various conditions. The evaluation of the machine by elite fighters allowed us to obtain valuable data on its performance in conditions as close as possible to real combat scenarios.

If the AGF 2 successfully passes all the evaluation stages, it can become an important element of the modernization of the German army. The new platform will improve the mobility, security and effectiveness of troops on the battlefield. In addition, the successful introduction of the machine will strengthen the position of the German defense sector at the international level.

Experts note that the tests in the United States emphasize the importance of international cooperation in the field of defense. Joint exercises and equipment testing allow countries to share experiences and technologies, which contributes to the development of the defense capability of the entire NATO.

The tests are scheduled to be completed in the coming months. Based on their results, a decision will be made on the future of AGF 2. If approved, the vehicle could be integrated into the German army in the coming years. This will be an important step in strengthening the defense capabilities of Germany and its allies.

The German army is facing difficulties in preparing Generation Z recruits for military operations

Soldiers of the Bundeswehr

German Army (Bundeswehr) faced serious problems in recruiting and training Generation Z recruits for possible military operations. Despite significant investments in defense, including the allocation of €100 billion for military needs, the Bundeswehr is having difficulty attracting young people who are increasingly refusing military service because of their beliefs.

According to statistics, every fourth recruit who joined the army in 2024 leaves within the first six months.This is due to the fact that the younger generation, born between 1997 and 2012, has different expectations from work than previous generations. They are looking for more flexible working conditions and a work-life balance that the Bundeswehr cannot yet offer.

In addition, the number of conscientious objectors is growing. Many young people believe that military service does not correspond to their personal values and worldview.

To attract new recruits, the Bundeswehr began using new recruitment methods. Among them is the creation of advertising campaigns using social networks and YouTube videos, such as the series "Save", which shows dramatic scenes from the lives of military medics.In addition, the army offers more flexible working conditions and improves the application process.

However, these measures have not yet produced the expected results. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius is even considering the possibility of returning universal military service for young people, which was abolished in 2011.

The main reason for the negative attitude of the younger generation towards military service is their perception of the army as a place where there is no balance between work and personal life.In addition, the historical aspects and the "military guilt" of Germany also influence the attitude of young people towards military service.

The recruitment situation in the Bundeswehr is a reflection of broader trends in modern society, where the younger generation is less interested in traditional forms of service and is increasingly looking for flexibility and freedom in their professional lives.In order to attract young people, the Bundeswehr will have to radically change its approaches to recruitment and conditions of service, as well as take into account the changing expectations of Generation Z.

Bundeswehr has formed the first territorial Defense division to protect critical infrastructure

 The German Armed forces, the Bundeswehr, have formed and consolidated the first Territorial Defense Division (Heimatschutzdivision). 

This was announced at a ceremonial formation at the Julius Leber barracks in Berlin on Thursday, March 14, by the commander of the Bundeswehr ground forces, Lieutenant General Alfons Mais.

The personnel of this unit will number 6,000 people. Its tasks will include protecting critical infrastructure (ports, railway facilities, pipelines, roads, bridges, and so on), as well as facilitating the transfer of troops and assistance in case of emergencies.

The German army is at a crossroads: staff shortages and the aging of the contingent

 

The official report on the state of the Bundeswehr, presented on Tuesday by Eva Hoegl, Parliamentary Commissioner for the Armed Forces, painted a gloomy picture of the current state of the German army. 

As of the end of 2024, 28% of the positions among the rank and file of the Bundeswehr remained unfilled. Overall, the number of military personnel decreased to 181,200, which is 340 less than a year earlier. At the same time, the average age of military personnel increased from 32.4 years in 2019 to 34 years in 2024. This means that the Bundeswehr is not only declining in numbers, but also aging, which creates additional problems for its combat readiness.

Commissioner Hoegl also pointed out that despite an 8% increase in recruitment in 2024, more than a quarter of recruits quit after a six-month probation period. As a result, the Bundeswehr is still experiencing an acute shortage of 21,826 military personnel to reach the target strength of 203,000. 

In addition to personnel problems, the report also points to serious deficiencies in weapons and infrastructure. Thus, the Bundeswehr is experiencing a shortage of ammunition, spare parts, radio equipment, tanks, ships and aircraft. Despite a significant increase in the military budget and the achievement of the NATO target of 2% of GDP in 2024, many military installations and barracks are still in poor condition. 

Eva Hoegl's report was presented amid a debate about revising budget rules to significantly increase military spending. However, even with this in mind, the Bundeswehr has to overcome many structural and personnel challenges. In particular, Defense Minister Boris Pistorius is considering the possibility of returning to compulsory military service, which was abolished in 2011. 

In addition, the German authorities plan to modernize the armed forces, including the creation of a unified operational command and the expansion of cyber units to the level of a separate type of armed forces. 

The current Bundeswehr status report highlights that despite a significant increase in funding and some modernization successes, the German army is still at a crossroads. Recruitment problems, an aging contingent, and a lack of weapons and infrastructure call into question the Bundeswehr's ability to carry out its tasks in modern conditions. In the coming years, Germany will have to find a balance between increasing military spending and solving personnel and structural problems.

Suspicion of sabotage: they tried to poison the water on the frigate of the German Navy Hessen

 They tried to poison the water on the frigate of the German Navy Hessen. An investigation is underway on suspicion of sabotage.

 Previously, suspicious incidents occurred on other ships.The German Defense Ministry confirmed that on Thursday there was a "possible security incident at the naval arsenal in Wilhelmshaven," "the circumstances of the incident are now being investigated by responsible military and civilian investigative authorities.

""We are conducting an investigation jointly with the Bundeswehr in connection with an incident involving a warship," Wilhelmshaven police said. They noted that military counterintelligence is involved in the investigation.

frigate of the German Navy Hessen

Rheinmetall Delivers First Boxer Skyranger 30 Air Defense Vehicle to the Bundeswehr

Boxer Skyranger 30

Rheinmetall has successfully delivered the first Boxer Skyranger 30 air defense vehicle to the German armed forces, marking a significant milestone in modernizing the Bundeswehr's air defense capabilities. The delivery, completed on schedule at the end of January 2025, provides the German military with a test sample for evaluation before the system enters mass production.

The Boxer Skyranger 30 is designed to enhance the Bundeswehr's ability to counter aerial threats, including drones, aircraft, and missiles. Equipped with a 35mm automatic cannon and advanced radar systems, the vehicle offers superior firepower, precision targeting, and mobility. This combination makes it an ideal solution for modern battlefield requirements, where rapid deployment and effective engagement are critical.

Defense Minister Boris Pistorius praised the achievement, stating, "The Boxer Skyranger 30 represents a leap forward in our air defense capabilities. It ensures that the Bundeswehr remains equipped to face current and future challenges."

Following the delivery of the test model, the Bundeswehr will begin acceptance testing in the spring of 2025. This phase will include initial user training for soldiers who will operate and maintain the system. Feedback from these evaluations will be crucial in fine-tuning the vehicle's performance and ensuring it meets all operational requirements.

"The testing period is vital," said Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger. "It allows us to gather real-world data and make any necessary adjustments before transitioning into full-scale production."

Under the contract signed in February 2024, Rheinmetall is responsible for delivering one test model and 18 production vehicles. Serial deliveries are primarily scheduled for 2027 and early 2028, ensuring the Bundeswehr receives a steady flow of new units to integrate into its fleet.

This timeline aligns with Germany's broader defense modernization plans, which emphasize enhancing readiness and interoperability with NATO allies. The Boxer Skyranger 30 will play a key role in achieving these goals by providing state-of-the-art air defense capabilities.

Boxer Skyranger 30: Key Features

- Mobility: Based on the proven Boxer platform, the vehicle offers exceptional off-road performance and strategic mobility.

- Firepower: Armed with a 35mm automatic cannon, it can effectively engage a wide range of aerial targets.

- Advanced Sensors: Integrated radar and electro-optical systems enable precise detection and tracking of threats.

- Protection: State-of-the-art armor and survivability features ensure crew safety in high-risk environments.

The arrival of the first Boxer Skyranger 30 marks the beginning of a new chapter in the Bundeswehr's air defense strategy. By combining cutting-edge technology with unmatched versatility, this system positions Germany at the forefront of modern military innovation. As serial production ramps up in the coming years, the Bundeswehr will be better prepared to protect its forces and contribute to international security efforts.