Berlin - The German Bundestag recently convened for what can only be described as a marathon session, during which members of the Budget Committee approved 38 major procurement projects for the Bundeswehr, marking the largest such meeting on record. Presented with thick stacks of documents, the representatives greenlit various procurement proposals including four new submarines, missiles, uniforms, and technical upgrades.
Among the most significant items approved were missile systems for air defense platforms such as Patriot and Iris-T. These purchases aim to replenish stockpiles depleted as Germany provided military aid to Ukraine. The missiles will be supplied by the Nürnberger company Diehl and MBDA Deutschland located in Schrobenhausen, which recently welcomed Federal Defense Minister Boris Pistorius for a groundbreaking ceremony to significantly expand their facilities.
Another substantial contract was awarded to KNDS Deutschland, formerly known as Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW). The Munich-based company will partner with Rheinmetall to equip nearly 10,000 Bundeswehr vehicles with modern digital radio technology, valued at nearly one billion Euro for each partner.
Despite these advancements, questions linger about unfulfilled promises. Chancellor Olaf Scholz had unexpectedly announced the procurement of 20 additional Eurofighter jets at the ILA airshow in Berlin last June, but to date, there has been no official order placed with Airbus, who would assemble the jets in Manching. Similarly, KNDS awaits finalized orders for the RCH 155 self-propelled howitzers, which Scholz announced alongside former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
Nonetheless, improvements are evident. Ralf Ketzel, the CEO of KNDS Deutschland, noted, “Die Zusammenarbeit mit den Beschaffungsbehörden hat sich verbessert” (Translation: “The cooperation with the procurement authorities has improved”). These statements were echoed by Minister Pistorius, who expressed belief in the transformation of the Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and Use of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw), which has overcome its reputation for bureaucratic delays.
The phrase “Zeitenwende,” or turning point, has marked the discourse around defense procurement as the BAAINBw has taken steps to streamline processes, enabling swifter approvals. Pistorius observed, “Das BAAINBw war lange eine der am meisten gebashten Behörden Deutschlands. Aber die haben den Turnaround wirklich geschafft” (Translation: “The BAAINBw was long considered one of the most bashed authorities in Germany. But they have really succeeded with the turnaround.”)
Looking forward, Pistorius emphasized the importance of maintaining the acceleration of procurement efforts, stating, “Ein Nachlassen ist keine Option in diesen Zeiten” (Translation: “Letting up is not an option in these times”). The German military’s modernization reflects its commitment to NATO obligations.
The German military is not just focusing on vehicles and missiles; it is also modernizing its fleet of light trucks. A contract was finalized for the procurement of up to 5,800 new light trucks to replace the aging truck models like the Wolf. The first batch of 1,200 trucks has already entered production, with additional orders forthcoming. The Wolf-type successors, named Wolf 2, are expected to excel not just in rugged terrain but also adapt to modern communication needs.
This transition is coupled with design changes to embed advanced military communication systems from inception, illustrating preparedness for genuine operational conditions anticipated by NATO standards.
Meanwhile, the Bundeswehr continues to optimize its missile capabilities with the Taurus cruise missile system. The Bundeswehr has been equipped with the Taurus since 2005, which is almost five meters long and weighs about 1,400 kilograms. A recent framework agreement aims to sustain the operational capability of this system, for which plans entail expenditure of approximately €829.8 million.
A significant element of the Taurus missile system is its ability to strike strategic targets from considerable distances without requiring pilots to enter hostile airspace. Nevertheless, this capability has prompted political debate, especially concerning the question of whether these missiles should be supplied to Ukraine, with critics arguing such assistance could enable deep strikes within Russian territory.
Currently, Chancellor Scholz remains resolute against supplying the requested weaponry. Meanwhile, the opposition continues to voice support for such actions, citing concerns over missing opportunities.
Expanding beyond the procurement of ground and air capabilities, Germany is also bolstering the security of domestic air transport systems. Development is underway for enhanced self-protection systems against missile threats for government aircraft, namely the A350 and C-130J military transports.
The Bundeswehr has turned to advanced Directed InfraRed Counter Measures (DIRCM) technology for these installations, which help safeguard aircraft against guided missiles equipped with infrared seekers. Contracts have been awarded, with expected completion of installations on the C-130J by 2032. By updating their fleet with such protective measures, the Bundeswehr aims to safeguard its operational capabilities continuously.
The convergence of these extensive modernization efforts indicates Germany's commitment to its military readiness and compliance with NATO standards. With each procurement and contract, the Bundeswehr is stepping up its game, showcasing the resolve to build on past experiences and lessons learned. The speed, efficiency, and collaborative spirit among defense stakeholders herald important strides toward shaping a more formidable and responsive military structure for the future.
