Germany Inks Defence Deal with Dynamit Nobel
The German government has finalized a framework agreement with defence manufacturer Dynamit Nobel Defence (DND) to ensure a long-term supply of shoulder-fired weapon systems for the Bundeswehr. Approved by the German parliament’s budget committee, the contract covers the production and delivery of launchers and cartridges for the RGW90 weapon family, as well as cartridges for the Panzerfaust 3 system. Signed on 12 February 2025, the agreement aims to bolster the Bundeswehr’s operational readiness by securing a steady supply of these critical combat systems for years to come.
The deal underscores Germany’s commitment to strengthening its dismounted combat capabilities with reliable and effective weaponry. The RGW90 and Panzerfaust 3 systems are essential for modern infantry operations, providing soldiers with versatile and powerful tools for engaging armoured and fortified targets. This procurement ensures that the Bundeswehr remains equipped to meet evolving battlefield challenges.
DND highlighted that the framework agreement brings stability and security for both the company and the German military. By guaranteeing long-term production and supply, the contract enables DND to sustain essential manufacturing capacities while ensuring the availability of materials for Germany’s defence needs. This partnership reinforces the country’s defence industrial base and supports strategic autonomy.
The Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology, and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) emphasized the flexibility and adaptability of the agreement. It allows for efficient procurement planning while maintaining a resilient supply chain, ensuring the Bundeswehr can respond swiftly to changing operational requirements. This approach aligns with Germany’s broader efforts to modernize its armed forces and enhance national security.
The agreement marks a significant step in Germany’s defence modernization strategy, ensuring the Bundeswehr remains equipped with cutting-edge shoulder-fired weaponry. By securing a stable supply chain and fostering collaboration with domestic industry, Germany is strengthening its defence capabilities and readiness for future challenges.
Indra Wins Contract for German Air Force Space Radar
Indra has secured a contract with Germany’s National Procurement Office (BAAINBw) to provide the Luftwaffe with a cutting-edge space surveillance radar. The system, designed to detect objects in low Earth orbit, will protect satellites from space debris and potential threats posed by other satellites. This advanced radar will enhance Germany’s ability to monitor and safeguard its space assets, ensuring the continuity of critical services like communications, transport, and weather forecasting.
The contract, awarded under Germany’s L-GUARD program, is part of the broader Space Surveillance system (SysWRÜbw). Indra’s radar will be operated remotely by the German Space Command (WRKdoBw) from the space situational awareness centre in Uedem. The system will catalogue near-Earth objects and track those of interest, working in tandem with other sensors, such as Germany’s network of telescopes, to bolster space situational awareness.
Manuel Ruiz, Indra’s director of Integrated Defence Systems, expressed pride in the partnership, stating, “This radar protects the space assets essential to our society. We’re grateful for the support from the CDTI, the Spanish Space Agency, and the Spanish Space Command in developing this technology.” The radar is an upgraded version of Indra’s S3TSR system, already operational in Spain, and is recognized for its high performance, modular design, and scalability.
The contract includes the production, integration, and delivery of the radar, along with deployable operational capabilities and technical support services. This project underscores Indra’s leadership in aerospace and defence technology, as well as its ability to deliver sophisticated solutions for global security challenges.
By equipping the Luftwaffe with one of the world’s most advanced space surveillance radars, Germany is taking a significant step toward protecting its military and civilian space assets. The system will play a crucial role in mitigating risks from space debris and adversarial satellites, ensuring the resilience of Germany’s space infrastructure.
Helsing to Produce 6,000 Strike Drones for Ukraine
European defence technology leader Helsing has announced the production of 6,000 HX-2 strike drones for Ukraine, following a prior order of 4,000 HF-1 drones currently being delivered. This moves positions Helsing as one of the largest strike drone manufacturers globally. The HX-2, unveiled in late 2024, is an electrically propelled X-wing precision munition with a 100 km range, advanced AI for electronic warfare resistance, and swarm capabilities controlled by a single operator. Designed for mass production at a lower cost, the HX-2 addresses critical gaps in modern land warfare.
In addition to the drone production, Helsing has completed its first Resilience Factory (RF-1) in Southern Germany. These high-efficiency facilities are designed to provide sovereign manufacturing capabilities for nation states, ensuring local production and supply chain resilience. RF-1, now operational, can produce over 1,000 HX-2 drones monthly. Helsing plans to establish more Resilience Factories across Europe, scaling production to tens of thousands of units during conflicts.
Gundbert Scherf, Helsing co-founder, emphasized the importance of precision mass production in offsetting Ukraine’s numerical disadvantage in legacy systems. “NATO has critical lessons to learn, and fast,” he said. “Our distributed approach to manufacturing ensures sovereignty and rapid scalability for European nations.”
Niklas Köhler, another co-founder, highlighted Helsing’s innovative approach: “By solving complex challenges in the software layer rather than electronics, we deliver affordable precision mass. This deters adversaries and strengthens democracies.” The HX-2 is the first in a new generation of cost-effective, mass-producible defence systems.
With the completion of RF-1 and the significant drone orders, Helsing is solidifying its role as a key player in modern defence technology, supporting Ukraine and reshaping Europe’s defence manufacturing landscape.