GDELS to Supply PIRANHA 5 for German Army’s TaWAN
General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) has been selected by the German Army to supply up to 256 PIRANHA 5 vehicles as part of the TaWAN project, a critical initiative to modernize the Bundeswehr’s long-range telecommunications network. The initial order includes 58 vehicles, with the first deliveries scheduled for 2026. The contract, valued in the three-digit million range, underscores GDELS’ role in enhancing Germany’s defence capabilities.
The PIRANHA 5 vehicles will be equipped with a 15-meter telescopic mast system, serving as highly mobile, armoured connectivity points within the TaWAN network. This system builds on the proven success of the PIRANHA 3 KOMPAK, a similar long-range communication vehicle used by the Swiss Army. The project is being executed in collaboration with Rheinmetall, the prime contractor for the TaWAN initiative.
To ensure operational readiness and technical support, GDELS will establish a system support centre in Neubrandenburg. This facility will provide immediate logistics and sustainment for the PIRANHA 5 fleet, reinforcing GDELS’ commitment to the German market. Dr. Thomas Kauffmann, GDELS Vice President and Managing Director of GDELS-Deutschland, expressed pride in the partnership, stating, “We are grateful for the trust placed in us and look forward to delivering these advanced vehicles.”
Antonio Bueno, President of GDELS, emphasized the company’s dedication to Germany as a key home market. “This project demonstrates our strong commitment to the Bundeswehr and our role as a reliable partner in strengthening Germany’s defence infrastructure,” he said. The initiative highlights GDELS’ ability to deliver cutting-edge solutions while supporting local manufacturing and sustainment capabilities.
The TaWAN project marks a significant step in modernizing the German Army’s telecommunications network, ensuring enhanced connectivity and operational effectiveness. With the PIRANHA 5, GDELS and Rheinmetall are set to provide a robust, mobile solution that meets the evolving needs of the Bundeswehr in an increasingly complex defence landscape.
Bavaria Unveils Drone and Robotics Innovation Hub
Bavaria has launched the “Innovation Platform for Drone Technology and Robotics,” a collaborative initiative aimed at advancing cutting-edge technologies in the military and public safety sectors. Supported by the University of the German Armed Forces Munich and Bayern Innovative GmbH, the platform seeks to strengthen Germany’s sovereignty in drone and robotics technology by fostering innovation and networking among start-ups, industry leaders, and research institutions.
The platform addresses the challenges faced by start-ups, such as ARX Robotics and Quantum Systems, which often struggle with approvals, budgeting, and scaling their businesses. By providing a unified space for collaboration, the initiative aims to streamline the innovation process—from idea generation and prototyping to patenting and series production. This support is crucial for start-ups emerging from academic environments, particularly the Bundeswehr University Munich, which has a strong track record of nurturing tech innovators.
A key focus of the platform is to leverage shared components and software across drone and robotics systems, enabling companies to learn from each other and create added value. The initiative also emphasizes the importance of state-of-the-art drone and robotics technologies in enhancing national security and defence capabilities, as highlighted by recent developments on international battlefields and industrial collaborations like the UXS Alliance.
Dr. Rainer Seßner, Managing Director of Bayern Innovative GmbH, emphasized the platform’s goal: “We aim to turn every idea into a viable innovation by bringing together expertise and resources. The TechHUB SVI supports not only large companies but also SMEs and start-ups that contribute to advancing drone technologies.” The platform operates as a joint project, inviting participation from all interested companies, research institutes, and networks with relevant expertise.
This initiative underscores Bavaria’s commitment to fostering innovation in the defence and security sectors. By creating a collaborative ecosystem, the platform aims to position Germany as a leader in drone and robotics technology, ensuring its competitiveness and technological sovereignty in an increasingly dynamic global landscape.
KNDS Launches LEOPARD Hungary MRO Joint Venture
KNDS Germany and Hungarian company HM Currus Zrt. have formed a joint venture, LEOPARD Hungary MRO Kft., to support the long-term logistical supply and maintenance of KNDS systems used by the Hungarian Army. The venture, based in Gödöllö, Hungary, is 51% owned by Currus and 49% by KNDS. This partnership strengthens the collaboration between the two companies and ensures the operational readiness of Hungary’s KNDS fleet.
The joint venture will oversee the maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) of 90 KNDS systems acquired by Hungary in 2019. These include the LEOPARD 2 main battle tank, the PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzer, and family vehicles such as the WISENT armored recovery vehicle and the LEGUAN armored bridge-laying vehicle. Additionally, LEOPARD Hungary MRO will manage the upkeep of simulation and training facilities for these systems.
Hubert Dassinger, Co-Managing Director of LEOPARD Hungary MRO, highlighted the significance of the partnership: “This joint venture builds on the successful cooperation we’ve had with our Hungarian customer over the past five years. We are proud to continue supporting their KNDS fleet alongside our trusted Hungarian partner, Currus.”
The establishment of LEOPARD Hungary MRO underscores KNDS’ commitment to providing long-term support for its defence systems while fostering local industrial partnerships. By leveraging Currus’ expertise and local presence, the venture aims to enhance the operational efficiency and sustainability of Hungary’s military assets.
This collaboration marks a significant step in strengthening Hungary’s defence capabilities and highlights the growing importance of international partnerships in maintaining advanced military systems. LEOPARD Hungary MRO is set to play a crucial role in ensuring the readiness and reliability of Hungary’s KNDS fleet for years to come.
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