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In a significant development for Germany's military logistics capabilities, Rheinmetall has been awarded a substantial contract by the Bundeswehr to supply 568 logistics vehicles.
This order, valued at over €330 million, marks a crucial step in modernizing the German armed forces' transportation fleet. The contract, approved by the German Parliament's budget committee on December 18, 2024, encompasses two main vehicle types.
The first is a set of 349 unprotected transport vehicles (UTF-trucks) in 5t and 15t models. The second component consists of 219 trucks equipped with a swap-body system, of which 121 will feature protected driver's cabs. This diverse range of vehicles is designed to meet various logistical needs of the Bundeswehr. Delivery timelines for these vehicles have been established, with the UTF-trucks scheduled for 2026 and the swap-body trucks expected by November 2025.
This order is part of a larger framework agreement signed in July 2024, which stands as the most substantial order in Rheinmetall's history for logistical vehicles. The framework allows for the delivery of up to 6,500 trucks, with a potential gross value reaching €3.5 billion over 7 years.
The UTF-truck family has been a cornerstone of Bundeswehr logistics since 2017 when Rheinmetall MAN was first commissioned to supply these vehicles. The family includes 5t and 15t payload classes, and a new 4x4 model UTF 3.5t is being introduced under the current framework. This addition enhances the versatility of the UTF family while maintaining a high degree of commonality with existing models.
Rheinmetall's performance in 2024 set a new benchmark, with the delivery of 2,015 logistics vehicles to the Bundeswehr. This record-breaking achievement included 1,715 swap-body systems, 250 unprotected transport vehicles, and 50 semi-trailer units.
Such large-scale and rapid delivery intends to mark a the new era of efficient procurement in the Bundeswehr and solidifies Rheinmetall's position as a reliable partner for the armed forces. The vehicles supplied by Rheinmetall are based on the company's robust HX-family, known for their high mobility even in challenging terrains. This design philosophy makes them ideal for military applications. The widespread use of the HX-family across various nations offers significant advantages in terms of interoperability and logistics, particularly in multinational operations.
Currently, the HX-family of vehicles is not only used by Germany but also by the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, Austria, Hungary, Singapore, Slovenia, Denmark, and Ukraine. This international adoption speaks to the vehicles' reliability and versatility. With over 20,000 units in use worldwide, the recent order from the Bundeswehr further cements the HX-vehicles' reputation in the global military logistics sector.
As the Bundeswehr continues to modernize and expand its logistical capacities, this contract with Rheinmetall represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to enhance Germany's military readiness and operational effectiveness.
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