Germans will supply Ukraine with Skyranger 30— a cannon with missiles that blocks the sky from drones

Skyranger 30 is not just an air defense system, but a system for drones

The German concern Rheinmetall has started supplying Skyranger 30 anti-aircraft missile and cannon systems to Ukraine. This is not just an upgrade of the old air defense system — it is a specialized system for dealing with drones, which have become the main threat on the battlefield. Unlike heavy missile systems, Skyranger deftly handles small, cheap and maneuverable drones that slip past radars.

Now the Ukrainian Armed Forces have weapons that are tailored specifically for today's war.

How does a bunch of guns and missiles work?

The Skyranger 30 is a hybrid. A 30-mm automatic cannon and missiles are mounted on one platform. The cannon fires shrapnel, which explodes in the air, covering the area around the drone. The missiles are short—range, but very accurate, with infrared guidance. They are needed for targets that the cannon can no longer reach.

The system operates autonomously: its own radar, guidance, and control. It can stand on a tracked chassis or on a truck — it is quickly transferred and deployed.

4 by 4 kilometers under protection

According to the developers, one Skyranger 30 complex is capable of "closing" a 4 by 4 kilometer area. This does not mean that he destroys every drone in the radius — we are talking about a zone where an enemy drone loses the chance of a successful attack. The radar detects the target, the system reacts quickly, and the drone either crashes or its operator loses contact and leaves.

Such a shield is especially important for protecting rear facilities — warehouses, checkpoints, repair shops, where there is no heavy air defense.

Why is this important now

Drones are flying more frequently, cheaper and smarter. Expensive missiles are not always effective against them. Skyranger is a reasonable compromise: relatively inexpensive, mobile, accurate. His appearance in the Ukrainian army is a step towards creating a multi—layered anti-drone defense, where each level hits its own targets.

Now Ukraine has a weapon that doesn't just shoot — it thinks and adapts.

Sources

1. RIA SV — Ukraine to receive latest Rheinmetall anti-drone air-defence systems by end of 2025
2. RIA Novosti & ZDF — interview with Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger on Skyranger deliveries
3. Gazeta.ru — Rheinmetall contract to supply Ukraine with Skyranger systems
4. RBC — Rheinmetall Skyranger delivery to Kyiv
5. Interfax — Rheinmetall to provide Ukraine with new mobile air-defence systems against drones
6. Tencent News — German Army to procure Skyranger 30 systems for drone threat (background on system)

Rheinmetall has revealed a new Skyranger 35 anti—aircraft tank - it will go to DSEI-2025

Not just an upgrade, but a serious leap in power

On September 4, Rheinmetall released a video showing a new version of its mobile anti—aircraft system, the Skyranger 35 (SR35), based on the KF41 Lynx combat vehicle. In a few days, from September 9th to 12th, the system will be presented at the DSEI 2025 international exhibition in London. This is not just a demonstration, but a signal to the NATO countries: we have a ready—made solution against drones, helicopters and tactical missiles.

And most importantly, it is already working on a tracked platform, which means it is keeping pace with the tanks.

Tracks, 35mm cannon, and next-level electronics

The Skyranger 35 is not just a turret with a cannon. This is a whole air defense unit on wheels (or tracks). The base is a 35mm automatic cannon capable of firing smart rounds AHEAD. They explode in front of the target, creating a cloud of damaging elements — ideal against drones and missiles.

Added to this are radar, IR sensors, laser targeting and a powerful fire control system. All this works in automatic mode: detected, identified, opened fire — in seconds.

Now the system is based on the KF41 Lynx tracked platform, which means it will not lag behind tanks in the mud, on slopes and under fire.

Why is NATO interested in this

The situation on the fronts in recent years has shown that the main threat is not fighters, but drones. Cheap, numerous, maneuverable. The old anti-aircraft guns can't handle it. And the Skyranger 35 is just what you need to cover columns, rear bases and forward positions.

Rheinmetall says bluntly: the system is becoming increasingly important for the collective defense of NATO. And these are not empty words. The alliance countries are already looking for mobile, fast and accurate solutions — and Skyranger suits them.

From tank to tower — how to put on different platforms

Interestingly, Skyranger can be installed not only on Lynx. Earlier, at Eurosatory 2024, Rheinmetall showed the same tower on the body of the old Leopard 2A4. That is, the idea is modular: there is one tower, and any platform. Even tracked, even wheeled.

This reduces cost and simplifies logistics. One complex is used for different needs. And quickly.

Sources

1. Building-Tech.org — Skyranger 35 high-precision mobile air-defence system with AI control
2. Overclockers.ru — Rheinmetall unveils Lynx Skyranger 35 air-defence system on Lynx KF41 IFV chassis
3. Invoen.ru — new KF41 Lynx IFV evaluated by Chinese specialists
4. Wikipedia — Lynx (IFV) overview

Rheinmetall has attached missiles to the Primoco drone for self—defense - now it can shoot back from fighter jets

Czech drone with German weapons

Rheinmetall took the Czech Primoco One 150 reconnaissance drone and turned it into a combat vehicle. Previously, this device was used mainly for surveillance and data collection. Now serious weapons have been added to it, including missiles that can attack other aircraft. The basis was a drone from the Czech Primoco, and weapons and integration from the German giant Rheinmetall.

It turned out to be a hybrid: a quiet and hardy scout who now knows how to shoot back.

Homing bombs and air–to-air missiles

Two types of weapons were installed on the Primoco One 150. The first is homing ammunition for strikes against ground targets. The second, and completely unexpected for such a drone— is an air–to-air missile. They are needed to repel attacks by fighter jets or helicopters that may try to shoot down a drone.

Drones like this used to be an easy target. Now, if they're spotted, they can respond.

The drone is no longer just a target

Before that, most reconnaissance drones were considered vulnerable. They fly to themselves, take pictures, transmit data, and that's it, no defense. If they were discovered, all that remained was to leave or be shot down.

Rheinmetall solved this problem radically: let the drone decide for itself when to use weapons. This is especially important in areas with dense air defenses, where every device counts.

Why would a drone need a weapon against airplanes

Imagine: a drone flies into an area where enemy interceptors are flying. Previously, he just turned off the speed and went into hiding. Now he can detect the threat, launch the rocket and continue the mission.

This does not mean that it will become a replacement for fighter jets. But in autonomous operations, this ability increases the chances of survival. This means that it takes longer to keep in touch, longer to conduct reconnaissance, longer to participate in combat.

Sources

1. Interfax — Rheinmetall developing a 12-hour-endurance drone able to carry and launch up to eight loitering munitions.
2. Overclockers.ru — Primoco One “mother-ship” drone armed with HERO R-20 loitering weapons and an air-to-air missile for counter-UAS defense.
3. Ponomaroleg.com — Czech Primoco One 150 UAV upgraded with experimental German weaponry: 30 kg payload, 1,800 km range, 6–8 h endurance.
4. Wikipedia — overview of air-to-air guided missile principles relevant to the new Rheinmetall payloads.

Rheinmetall invests over a billion euros in a new plant in Bulgaria for the production of gunpowder and NATO shells

The largest defense investment in Southeastern Europe

The German defense concern Rheinmetall has announced a large—scale project - the construction of a new plant in Bulgaria. The investment volume will exceed one billion euros, making it one of the largest recent defense initiatives in Southeastern Europe. The new complex will specialize in the production of ammunition, including propellant powder and 155 mm artillery shells, standard for the armies of NATO countries.

This move strengthens Rheinmetall's presence in the region and responds to the growing demand for ammunition.

Production of gunpowder and artillery shells for the NATO armies

The plant will become part of Rheinmetall's expanding European ammunition production network, designed to reduce the alliance's dependence on external supplies. The production of propellant powders is a critically important stage of the projectile manufacturing cycle, previously concentrated mainly in Western Europe.

Now, with the deployment of facilities in Bulgaria, the concern will provide more stable and faster logistics for the countries of the Eastern flank of NATO, including Romania, Northern Macedonia, Ukraine and Bulgaria itself.

Bulgaria's strategic importance for supply chains

Bulgaria was not chosen by chance: the country has a favorable geographical location, a well-developed transport infrastructure and experience in the production of military equipment. In addition, its membership in NATO and the EU ensures the necessary level of security and regulatory stability.

Localization of production in Bulgaria will also make it possible to respond more quickly to the needs of armies in conditions of intense hostilities and reduce the risks associated with transporting ready-made ammunition over long distances.

Strengthening European combat readiness and independence

The Rheinmetall project directly supports the initiatives of the European Union and NATO to increase combat readiness and create sustainable supply chains for ammunition. Given the chronic shortage of shells in Western countries after supplies to the conflict zone, such investments are becoming strategically important.

The new plant will not only strengthen the region's defense industry, but will also create hundreds of highly skilled jobs, stimulating Bulgaria's economic development.

Rheinmetall is developing the world's first digital modular combat vehicle of the future

Digital transformation of armored vehicles: from idea to production

The American Rheinmetall company, a subsidiary of the German Rheinmetall concern, announced the development of the world's first fully digital modular combat vehicle. This project marks the transition from traditional design to a system based on digital counterparts and open architectures, which could dramatically change the face of future ground combat platforms.

The new concept aims to create not just a machine, but a flexible, scalable and constantly updated combat system.

Modular approach with Open Systems (MOSA)

The central element of the development was the principle of MOSA (Modular Open Systems Approach), a modular approach with open systems. It allows you to integrate various components — from fire control systems to armor and power plants — as "blocks" that can be quickly replaced, upgraded or adapted to a specific mission.

Thanks to the open interface, the platform is compatible with a wide range of weapons and electronics from different manufacturers, which increases flexibility and reduces dependence on a single supplier.

Virtual prototyping and accelerated development

The key innovation is the use of a complete digital model that covers the entire life cycle of the machine, from initial requirements to the assembly process. This model allows you to conduct virtual tests, optimize the design and identify potential problems long before creating a physical prototype.

"The digital model includes everything. It starts with the requirements and runs through the entire architecture of the vehicle, affecting all aspects, including the assembly process itself," said Ruben Burgos, Director of Programs at American Rheinmetall.

This approach reduces development time, reduces costs, and increases the reliability of the final product.

A platform ready for the evolution of decades

The company emphasizes that the goal is not a single model, but the creation of a long—term platform capable of developing over decades. Thanks to its digital base and modularity, the combat vehicle will be able to adapt to new threats, integrate advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, autonomous systems and laser weapons.

This project can become the basis for future vehicles that the US Armed Forces and their allies will use in conditions of hybrid and high-tech conflicts.

Europe builds 7 million m2 of new military plants: a sharp increase in production after the war in Ukraine

The large-scale re-equipment of Europe's defenses is taking tangible forms. According to the Financial Times, the area of new and expanding military production facilities in Europe has reached 7 million square meters, which is three times more than before the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. These conclusions are based on the analysis of more than a thousand satellite images provided by the European Space Agency (ESA), which cover the activities of 37 defense concerns.

The growth driver was the European Union's ASAP (Act in Support of Ammunition Production) initiative, launched to increase production of ammunition and missiles in response to the depletion of NATO stocks. The program has already had a significant effect: at 88 key sites, the building area has grown from 790,000 m2 in 2020-2021 to 2.8 million m2 in 2024-2025.

The largest projects:

 Hungary: Rheinmetall, together with N7 Holding, is building a large-scale factory that will produce 1.1 million 155 mm shells per year by 2027, compared with 70,000 in 2022. It will become one of the largest artillery production facilities in Europe.

- Norway: Kongsberg has opened a new factory for the production of missiles, including anti-ship and anti-aircraft systems.

- Finland: Nammo expands facilities at the Vihtavuori test site to increase production of ammunition and solid-fuel engines.

- United Kingdom: BAE Systems has increased production of 155 mm shells 16 times in recent years.

The European Commission is preparing a new program designed to complement ASAP and stimulate the production of not only ammunition, but also missiles, drones, and air and missile defense systems. This is necessary to restore strategic reserves and ensure the long-term sustainability of Europe's defense.

This industrial renewal marks a fundamental shift: Europe is moving from decades of cutting military spending to a strategy of mass and sustainable weapons production, preparing for possible future crises.

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.

GMARS vs HIMARS: The USA and Germany have tested a new super-powerful MLRS with dual ammunition

 

The American-German project of the future, the GMARS (Global Mobile Artillery Rocket System) multiple launch rocket System, has successfully completed its first combat launches, which are close to real combat conditions. The tests took place at the famous White Sands test site in New Mexico, where the system launched two GMLRS medium-range guided missiles. This milestone was an important milestone: it confirmed the combat readiness, accuracy and reliability of the new artillery platform developed jointly by Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall.

GMARS is not just a copy, but a direct competitor and an improved version of HIMARS, which has already proven itself in its area. The main advantage is the Rheinmetall HX reinforced 8x8 chassis, capable of withstanding up to 40 tons. Thanks to this, GMARS can carry two launch modules instead of one, which doubles the ammunition and dramatically increases firepower in one trip.

What can trigger GMARS?  

— 12 GMLRS missiles (range up to 150 km),

— 4 tactical PrSM missiles (up to 400 km),

— or 2 ATACMS ballistic missiles (up to 310 km).  

This versatility makes the system ideal for NATO: it is compatible with the main types of munitions used by the United States and its allies, which simplifies logistics and makes it easy to integrate GMARS into joint operations.

But the innovations don't stop there. GMARS is already being considered as a platform for future cruise missiles, including a modified ground—based version of the JASSM, which will turn it into a true multi-purpose strike system. Its high mobility, survivability and precision make it ideal for tasks:  

— striking deep into the defense,

— air defense suppression,  

— and counter-battery warfare.

The exact cost has not yet been disclosed, but analysts estimate it at $ 15 million — more expensive than HIMARS, but with much greater capabilities. Serial production and export are in the near future. This means that a new artillery "destruction machine" may appear on the battlefields of the future, which will change the balance of power.

Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin want to build large-scale missile production in Europe together

 

The German company Rheinmetall and the American Lockheed Martin are planning to create a joint venture aimed at establishing large—scale production of missiles directly in Europe. Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger spoke about this in detail during a conference call on the results of the first quarter of 2025. He confirmed that Rheinmetall is going to hold a controlling stake in this new joint business.

The idea is to create a serious European center for the production of advanced missile systems in order to ensure stable supplies and not depend on external factors. Such an enterprise will help accelerate production, improve quality and strengthen Europe's defense capability in the face of growing threats.

Papperger noted that cooperation with Lockheed Martin is an important step, because the American partner has extensive experience and technology in the field of missile weapons. By combining resources and knowledge, companies will be able to work faster and more efficiently, creating modern solutions for NATO and partner countries.

Rheinmetall will retain control over the joint venture, which will allow it to direct the development of the project in line with the interests of European countries and maintain a high level of production. The launch of such a concern is part of Rheinmetall's global strategy to strengthen defense technologies and create reliable arms supply chains in Europe.

All this is happening against the background of an increasing demand for modern missile systems that require manufacturers to be highly technologically advanced and flexible. The Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin joint venture should become a key player in the market, capable of meeting European security needs for many years to come.

Germany and the USA in action: the new GMARS missile system is undergoing fire tests in the White Sands Desert

GMARS

Serious news from the high—tech weapons front: the joint project of two defense giants — German Rheinmetall and American Lockheed Martin - is entering the home stretch. Their brainchild, the Global Mobile Artillery Missile System (GMARS), is no longer just a mock-up on display, but a real combat platform that is currently undergoing rigorous testing at the legendary White Sands training ground in New Mexico, USA.

It should be recalled that GMARS was publicly presented to the world for the first time at the largest Eurosatory 2024 arms exhibition in Paris. Then the system made a splash: compact but powerful, it combines mobility, precision and high speed of deployment. Now, just a few months after the presentation, engineers and the military are already launching rockets in the desert — and this means that the project has moved from the "this will be cool" stage to the "this is already working" stage.

GMARS is a modular system that can be installed on almost any suitable truck or armored personnel carrier. It is capable of launching both rockets and precision-guided missiles, including those developed by Lockheed Martin, for example, systems based on GMLRS (guided missiles). This makes GMARS versatile: from infantry support to the destruction of enemy fortifications hundreds of kilometers away.

What is especially important is that the system was created taking into account modern realities. In an environment where troops must move quickly to avoid becoming a target for enemy drones and reconnaissance, GMARS allows you to "shoot and drive away." It can be deployed in a matter of minutes, strike and disappear from the position, which dramatically increases the survival rate of the calculation.

The White Sands trials are not just a demonstration of capabilities. Everything is checked there: the accuracy of the hit, the reliability of the system in extreme temperatures, the rate of reloading, resistance to vibrations and dust, as well as compatibility with various types of ammunition. Considering that the White Sands test site is a historic place where missiles have been tested since the Second World War, testing there is a sign of high confidence and seriousness of the project.

So far, neither Rheinmetall nor Lockheed Martin have disclosed all the technical details, but they hint that GMARS is already attracting the interest of several NATO countries. Deliveries are possible both to Europe and to the countries of the Asia-Pacific region, where the demand for modern, but at the same time mobile and inexpensive to maintain weapons systems is growing.

In fact, GMARS is the answer to the challenges of modern warfare: fast, accurate, scalable and compatible with existing systems. And if the tests are successful, we may see this system in service with new armies in the next couple of years.

Leonardo swallowed Iveco: Italian giant buys armored car manufacturer for 1.7 billion euros

 

The Italian defense industry is undergoing tremendous consolidation. Leonardo, the country's largest aerospace and defense concern, has officially agreed to buy Iveco Defense Vehicles (IDV), a manufacturer of military equipment, for 1.7 billion euros (almost $1.9 billion). This marks the end of months of speculation and rumors surrounding the fate of the company that was put up for sale.

The deal, which Leonardo will finance with its own cash reserves, is not just a purchase, but a strategic breakthrough. It transforms Leonardo from a leading player in the field of avionics, helicopters and electronic warfare into a true titan, dominating the market for ground combat systems. Now, in addition to fighters and missiles, legendary Iveco armored personnel carriers and infantry fighting vehicles, such as LMV (Light Multirole Vehicle) all-terrain wheeled armored vehicles and tracked heavy vehicles, will appear in their portfolio.

This step logically continues Leonardo's strategy of strengthening its position on the ground. Last year, they already entered into a large-scale partnership with the German giant Rheinmetall for the joint production of tanks and combat vehicles. Now, by purchasing IDV, they gain full control over the production and development of ground vehicles in Italy. Experts believe that this will create a powerful European player capable of competing with the world's largest defense corporations and competing for major international contracts for the supply of the entire range of weapons — from aircraft to tanks.

Germany is building an "invisible army": from spy cockroaches to AI deception

 Germany, historically cautious in military matters, is radically revising its defense strategy. Against the background of growing geopolitical instability and the technological race with the United States, China and Russia, Berlin is betting not on new tanks, but on microtechnologies, bioinspired systems and artificial intelligence. The goal is to be one step ahead technologically.

The central figure in this new philosophy of war may be... a robotic cockroach. Inspired by DARPA's experiments, German scientists from institutions like Fraunhofer and IABG are moving on.: they create cyber-biological hybrids — "taracoids" with microscopic processors and AI. These live-inanimate agents are able to infiltrate ruins, tunnels and bunkers, transmitting real-time intelligence, becoming invaluable in urban battles and hostage rescue operations.

At the same time, Rheinmetall is developing fully autonomous combat robots. Their platforms can independently determine targets and make tactical decisions, learning from combat simulations in Ukraine and Syria. However, the key difference between the German approach is the emphasis on "ethical AI" and "digital humanism." The Bundeswehr insists that the decision to use deadly force should be left to humans, although there are disputes about fully autonomous missions in case of loss of communication.

Germany is also reviving military cunning, but digitally. Algorithms create fake radio signals, false targets, and digital counterparts of technology to mislead the AI opponent. This is a new form of disguise — cyber-disinformation.

To avoid dependence on the United States and China, Germany is building European supply chains for "military AI," including its own data centers and cloud infrastructures.

The program "Future Combat Systems – Bundeswehr 2040" depicts the future: a Bundeswehr soldier will become an operator surrounded by a swarm of drones, ground robots and nanosatellites, whose actions are synchronized by AI. Such an army, according to the idea, will not only be more powerful, but also more accurate, minimizing civilian casualties. Germany is not just preparing for war — it is designing its rules, making it almost invisible and controllable at the microchip level.

Rheinmetall builds tank factory in Romania: "Lynx" will go from the Balkans to the front

 

KF41 Lynx

German defense giant Rheinmetall is making a major strategic move: the company officially launches production of the KF41 Lynx infantry fighting vehicle in Romania. This is not just an assembly of parts — we are talking about creating a full-fledged production facility that will become a key element of the military modernization of the entire Eastern Europe.

The KF41 Lynx is one of the most advanced infantry fighting vehicles in the world: high—speed, modular, with a powerful turret, digital stuffing and the ability to fight not only infantry, but also other armored vehicles and even drones. Now these machines will be assembled not only in Germany, but also at a new factory in the Romanian city of Hushu, which brings production closer to the "hot" eastern border of NATO.

Why is this necessary? Firstly, Romania has ordered hundreds of Lynx (the exact number is being specified, but we are talking about hundreds of cars). Secondly, such production will allow for faster delivery of equipment not only to Romania, but also to other allied countries, such as Slovakia, Hungary, and Poland. This is part of the strategy: to create a "shield" of modern armored vehicles on the eastern flank of NATO.

In addition, local production is also an economy.: thousands of new jobs, development of engineering competencies, technological sovereignty. Rheinmetall doesn't just sell cars — it's building a defense hub in Eastern Europe.

This step is especially important against the background of threats from Russia and rising tensions in the Black Sea. Now NATO will be able to strengthen its positions faster, with equipment assembled right in the region.

Rheinmetall and Denel Munition have signed the largest contract for the supply of 155 mm shells to a NATO country

 

The German defense concern Rheinmetall and its subsidiary Denel Munition have signed a multi-year contract for the supply of 155—mm artillery shells to a European NATO member country. The company officially announced this on Thursday, stressing that this order was the largest in the history of Rheinmetall Denel Municipalities.

Basic details of the contract

- Volume and cost: The contract is estimated at several hundred million euros, reflecting the scale and strategic importance of the agreement for both parties.

- Delivery dates: The supply of shells will begin in 2025 and will end with the final batch in 2027.

- Type of ammunition: We are talking about 155-mm artillery shells, which are the standard for modern self-propelled and towed artillery systems of NATO.

- Value for Rheinmetall Denel Munition: This is the largest order in the company's history, which demonstrates the high confidence in the products and production capabilities of the combined company.

The importance of the contract for European security

- Strengthening the defense capability: Large-scale supplies of modern ammunition will significantly increase the combat capability of the artillery units of the recipient country.

- Responding to modern challenges: Amid rising tensions in Europe and the increasing need for ammunition to support operations and resupply, such contracts are becoming critically important for NATO countries.

- Development of industrial cooperation: The agreement demonstrates the successful integration of European and South African defense technologies and production facilities.

Prospects and market impact

- Production growth: Rheinmetall and Denel Munition plan to expand production facilities to ensure timely order fulfillment.

- Long-term cooperation: The contract can become the basis for further agreements on the supply of ammunition and joint developments in the field of artillery systems.

- Impact on the arms market: Large orders of this scale strengthen Rheinmetall's position in the global ammunition market and strengthen the defense independence of European countries.

Launch of the MARTE project: development of the European main battle tank of the next generation

 According to a statement from Rheinmetall, the European defense sector has launched a new initiative to develop a next-generation European main battle tank.

The project, called MARTE (Europe's Main Armored Tank), is supported by the European Defense Fund (EDF) and brings together 51 organizations from 12 countries under the coordination of MARTE ARGE, a joint venture of KNDS Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG and Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH.

Rheinmetall notes that the Grant Agreement was signed between MARTE ARGE and the European Commission on December 1, 2024, officially launching the project. The launch meeting took place a few days later in Stockholm, where representatives of major defense companies, research institutes, and small and medium-sized enterprises met to begin working together.

Rheinmetall and General Dynamics have received approval to continue developing a replacement for the M2 Bradley combat vehicle

M2A3 Bradley

American companies Rheinmetall and General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) have received official approval from the US Army to continue developing a new combat vehicle that will replace the aging M2 Bradley armored personnel carrier. This decision was made after a thorough and critical analysis of the projects of both companies, which was confirmed by three independent sources, including representatives of the industry and the army.

Stage B is a key step in the development of the XM30

The approval concerns the transition to stage B, which includes the development and production of prototypes (Engineering and Manufacturing Development — EMD). This stage is one of the most important in the process of creating a new combat vehicle, as it involves detailed design development, prototype manufacturing and testing, as well as preparation for mass production.

The XM30 project, which is being developed by Rheinmetall and GDLS, is designed to be a modern and more efficient replacement for the M2 Bradley, one of the main infantry fighting vehicles in the US Army, which has been in operation since the 1980s. The new vehicle will be equipped with improved armor, modern fire control systems, increased mobility and the integration of digital technologies for combat in modern conditions.

Competitive selection and analysis of projects

The decision to move to stage B was made on Wednesday after a detailed analysis and comparison of the technical characteristics, capabilities and prospects of both companies. Experts noted that the Rheinmetall and GDLS projects demonstrate a high level of innovation and meet the army's requirements for improving combat effectiveness and crew safety.

The approval of Stage B means that both companies will be able to start building XM30 prototypes, which will subsequently be subjected to field testing and evaluation. Based on the results of these tests, a decision will be made on choosing the final version for mass production.

The importance of the project for the US Army

The replacement of the M2 Bradley is one of the priorities of the US Army as part of the modernization of armored vehicles. Modern threats and changing combat conditions require equipment with improved protection, firepower, and network integration capabilities.

The XM30 project will significantly increase the combat capability of infantry units, provide better protection for personnel and increase the effectiveness of interaction on the battlefield. In addition, the introduction of modern technologies will reduce operating costs and simplify maintenance.

Prospects and next steps

After the completion of stage B and successful testing of prototypes, the US Army will decide to launch mass production of a new combat vehicle. The XM30 is expected to gradually replace the M2 Bradley in service, which will be an important step in the development of the ground forces and strengthening the country's defense capability.

Thus, the approval of Phase B for Rheinmetall and General Dynamics Land Systems marks the beginning of a new stage in the development of U.S. armored vehicles and reflects the army's commitment to innovation and improving the effectiveness of the armed forces.

Rheinmetall unveiled a new configuration of the Boxer 8x8 infantry fighting vehicle with Turra 30 V10 turret at IDET 2025

 Presented at IDET 2025 in Brno, Czech Republic, Rheinmetall has unveiled a new infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) configuration for its Boxer 8x8 armored vehicle platform, equipped with a Turra 30 V10 remote-controlled turret developed by the Slovak defense company EVPU. 

This new demonstrator underscores Rheinmetall's commitment to adapting the Boxer to modern combat requirements by combining a battle-proven platform with a lethal modular weapon system. Although this version is not targeted at the Czech or Slovak armies, which operate the Pandur and Patria AMV XP respectively, this version demonstrates its export potential for future customers looking for advanced multi-purpose ground systems.

Rheinmetall and Reliance Defense have entered into a strategic partnership in the field of ammunition production

The German defense company Rheinmetall and the Indian Reliance Defense have announced the start of strategic cooperation in the field of ammunition supplies. The official launch of the partnership was the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) representatives of both companies.

The central element of the agreement was the announcement by Reliance of plans to establish a new manufacturing facility in the Watad Industrial Area located in Ratnagiri district, Maharashtra, India. This company will specialize in the production of modern ammunition, which will strengthen the country's defense sector and increase exports of military products.

Cooperation with Rheinmetall, one of the leading European developers of weapons and security systems, provides India with access to advanced technologies and production standards. In turn, the German company gets the opportunity to expand its presence in the rapidly growing Indian arms market and participate in the implementation of the "Made in India" program aimed at developing local production.

This partnership can be an important step in modernizing the Indian defense industry and strengthening its role in the international arena.

Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin have agreed to jointly manufacture ATACMS and Patriot PAC-3 missiles in Europe

 

The German defense concern Rheinmetall has announced plans to establish large-scale production of high-precision missiles ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile System) and Patriot PAC-3 air defense systems on European territory. The American company Lockheed Martin, one of the world's leading developers and manufacturers of weapons, is a partner in the project.

According to Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger, active negotiations are currently underway between the companies to establish a joint venture in which the German side intends to receive a 60 percent stake. Such a structure will ensure not only local production, but also control over supply chains, which is especially important in the context of growing demand for weapons among NATO countries.

The deployment of missile system production facilities in Europe is designed to meet the needs of the alliance's countries, which are faced with a shortage of ammunition after large-scale supplies to Ukraine and accelerated rearmament of their own armies. In particular, ATACMS missiles and Patriot complexes remain among the most sought-after weapons of destruction and air defense.

In addition, such a step could become an important element of the EU's strategy to diversify and strengthen its own defense industry, reducing dependence on exclusively American supplies.

It is expected that the implementation of the project will stimulate the development of high-tech infrastructure, create new jobs and strengthen Rheinmetall's position as one of the key players in the European arms market.

Antimonopoly Agency approves creation of Rheinmetall, KNDS and Thales joint venture

 The Federal Anti-cartel Agency has approved plans by three arms manufacturers - Rheinmetall, KNDS and Thales - to establish a joint venture based in Germany. 

"We are increasingly seeing cooperation projects between various European companies," the Reuters news agency quoted Andreas Mundt, president of the Bonn-based antimonopoly authority, as saying on Friday, April 4. According to the experts, "Rheinmetall and KNDS' previous fields of activity largely complement each other," and therefore their unification is acceptable. Rheinmetall, KNDS Germany, KNDS France and Thales will each receive 25 percent of the shares in the company developing the new generation MGCS (Main Ground Combat System) battle tank. The companies signed a shareholder agreement with MGCS Project Company GmbH, based in Cologne, in Paris at the end of January, Reuters recalls. The aim of the Franco-German weapons program is to replace the main battle tanks - the German Leopard 2 and the French Leclerc - with a single ground combat system by 2040.