General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) has been awarded a contract worth about €3 billion to supply the Bundeswehr with its next-generation reconnaissance vehicle, known as Luchs 2, according to the company.
The programme, commissioned by Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw), will see the new vehicle replace the ageing Fennek light 4×4 reconnaissance system.
The Luchs 2 will be based on the latest Piranha 6×6 armoured platform, which features amphibious capability and advanced mobility.
GDELS said the vehicle will introduce new levels of autonomy and low-signature operation, using advanced networked sensors for long-range reconnaissance. The contract also includes training systems, simulators and logistical support.
Dr Thomas Kauffmann, GDELS Chief Sales Officer and Managing Director of GDELS Deutschland, said the company was “honoured and obliged to have been selected as the prime contractor for the development and delivery of the new reconnaissance vehicle for the Bundeswehr’s Army Reconnaissance Force.” He added that GDELS’ “primary objective is to deliver the vehicle on cost and on schedule, in collaboration with our partners.”
GDELS President Antonio Bueno said the German Armed Forces’ recent selection of the Piranha 8×8 for the TaWAN project and now the Piranha 6×6 for reconnaissance reflected confidence in the company’s capability.
“The selection once again underscores our expertise as one of Europe’s leading land systems providers. Our customers can fully rely on GDELS as a proven partner,” he said.
