KNDS Deutschland and Rheinmetall, through their joint venture ArGe D-LBO (Working group for digitalizing land-based operations), was awarded a EUR1.98 billion ($2.07 billion) contract from the German Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw).
This six-year contract will modernize the German Army’s land forces by digitizing the command-and-control systems of its vehicle fleet. The goal is to significantly enhance the army’s operational capabilities and situational awareness on the battlefield.
The “digitalization of land-based operations” is a cornerstone of the German Army’s modernization efforts. This initiative involves replacing outdated radio systems with advanced D-LBO command radio transmitters and upgrading software. The new IT system will seamlessly connect platforms, soldiers, and sensors, enabling real-time information exchange and improved interoperability.
The contract encompasses the full spectrum of work required to integrate the new digital radio transmitters and command-and-control systems. ArGe D-LBO will be responsible for the entire implementation process, including various sample integrations.
In a separate, related development, Rheinmetall, in partnership with blackned GmbH, has secured a EUR1.2 billion ($1.26 billion) contract to integrate IT systems for all vehicle and platform systems of the German Army’s land forces. Rheinmetall will account for approximately €730 million of the contract volume, while blackned GmbH will receive approximately €470 million. This contract will be executed by the ISI working group (ArGe IT-Systemintegration), which comprises the companies blackned GmbH and Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH. Airbus Defence and Space GmbH will be the key ArGe partners among other subcontractors.
The integration of the new systems is slated to begin in mid-2025 and will involve approximately 10,000 Bundeswehr combat and support vehicles. The entire conversion process is expected to be completed by the end of 2030.
A military history enthusiast, Richard began his career at Forecast International as editor of the World Weapons Weekly newsletter. As the Internet became central to defense research, he helped design the company’s Forecast Intelligence Center and now coordinates the FI Market Recap newsletters for clients. He also manages two blogs: Defense & Security Monitor, which covers defense systems and international security issues, and Flight Plan, focused on commercial aviation and space systems.
For more than 30 years, Richard has authored Defense & Aerospace Companies, Volume I (North America) and Volume II (International), providing detailed data on major aerospace and defense contractors. He also edits the International Contractors service, a database tracking all companies involved in programs covered by the FI library. Richard currently serves as Manager of the Information Services Group (ISG), which develops outbound content for both Forecast International and Military Periscope.
