In a landmark deal, Rheinmetall has been awarded the largest order in its history for military trucks by the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr). The framework contract allows for the delivery of up to 6,500 vehicles with a total value of up to EUR3.5 billion ($3.75 billion).
This major procurement follows the approval of funding by the German Parliament’s Budget Committee on June 26, 2024. The contract was officially signed on July 1, 2024, by Annette Lehnigk-Emden, President of the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw), and representatives of Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles (RMMV).
The agreement includes an initial order for over 610 vehicles valued at EUR312 million ($334 million), with 250 trucks scheduled for delivery in 2024. Funding for this initial call-off will primarily come from the Bundeswehr’s special funds. Rheinmetall AG will recognize this order in its third fiscal quarter of 2024.
The framework contract offers the Bundeswehr flexibility by allowing them to order additional quantities of existing, unprotected transport vehicles (UTF) in 5-ton and 15-ton variants over a seven-year period. Additionally, the agreement introduces a new vehicle category – the 4×4 UTF 3.5t truck. This new model is designed to share maximum parts compatibility with the existing UTF family for easier maintenance and logistics. UTF is based on the HX-family of RMMV.
A military history enthusiast, Richard began at Forecast International as editor of the World Weapons Weekly newsletter. As the Internet grew in importance as a research tool, he helped design the company's Forecast Intelligence Center and currently coordinates the EMarket Alert newsletters for clients. Richard also manages social media efforts, including two new blogs: Defense & Security Monitor, covering defense systems and international issues, and Flight Plan, which focuses on commercial aviation and space systems. For over 30 years, Richard has authored the Defense & Aerospace Companies, Volume I (North America) and Volume II (International) services. The two books provide detailed data on major aerospace and defense contractors. He also edits the International Contractors service, a database that tracks all the contractors involved in the programs covered in the FI library. More recently he was appointed Manager, Information Services Group (ISG), a new unit that encompasses developing outbound content for both Forecast International and Military Periscope.
