Germany has taken a significant step in enhancing its military capabilities by awarding a substantial contract to General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) for the delivery of Piranha 5 armored fighting vehicles. This procurement is part of the army’s ground telecommunications expansion project, reflecting a focus on improving mobile communications and radio management for operational effectiveness.
The contract, valued in the “three-digit-million range,” entails the delivery of 256 Piranha 5 platforms. Each of these vehicles will be equipped with a 15-meter (49-foot) Tactical Wide Area Network (TaWAN) telescopic tower, which will serve as a crucial connectivity point for the army’s mobile communication needs. This modern communication infrastructure is essential for effective command and control on contemporary battlefields.
To support the maintenance and operational requirements of this fleet, GDELS plans to build a dedicated facility in Neubrandenburg. The initial delivery phase will see 58 vehicles provided by 2026, marking a vital milestone in the procurement process.
Dr. Thomas Kauffmann, Vice President and Managing Director of GDELS-Deutschland, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in the company by the Bundeswehr and its industrial partners. GDELS President Antonio Bueno emphasized the company’s commitment to being a reliable partner for German defense needs, highlighting the importance of this contract for GDELS in its home market.
The Piranha 5 armored fighting vehicle is an advanced piece of military hardware. Weighing 30 tons (66,138 pounds) and measuring 8 meters (26 feet) in length, it features robust 14.5-millimeter resistant armor protection. In its standard configuration, the versatile 8×8 platform can transport up to eight passengers and can be armed with a variety of weapon systems, including autocannons, missile launchers, mortars, and machine guns.
Underpinning the vehicle’s performance is its powerful MTU or Scania engine, delivering up to 600 horsepower, allowing for speeds of up to 100 kilometers (62 miles) per hour and a range exceeding 500 kilometers (311 miles).
This contract aligns with Germany’s broader Tactical Wide Area Network (TaWAN) initiative, aimed at modernizing the army’s communication infrastructure for land-based operations. Beyond the Piranha vehicles, additional communication equipment will be integrated into 6-meter (20-foot) containers, transported by approximately 102 8×8 HX military trucks, further enhancing operational capabilities.
The prime TaWAN contract was awarded to local defense contractor Rheinmetall in January, valued at 1.88 billion euros (approximately $1.97 billion), with the potential for further increases if options are exercised between 2026 and 2029. This comprehensive modernization effort seeks to ensure that the German Army remains well-equipped to meet the challenges of modern warfare.
