Bundeswehr’s Wins Multi-Billion Euro Contract for Bundeswehr’s Digitalization Overhaul: DÜSSELDORF, Germany – In a significant step toward modernizing the German armed forces, Rheinmetall has been awarded a multi-billion euro framework contract to develop and implement the Bundeswehr‘s next-generation tactical communications network. Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH will serve as the prime contractor for the “Tactical Wide Area Network for Land Based Operations” (TaWAN LBO), a deployable, platform-based communication and directional radio management system.
The ten-year framework agreement, signed by representatives from the Federal Office for the Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw) and Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH, lays the groundwork for a comprehensive overhaul of the military’s communication infrastructure. Simultaneously with the signing of the framework contract, an initial order of €1.88 billion gross was placed to equip a division of the Bundeswehr. Deliveries are slated to occur between the end of 2026 and the end of 2029.
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German Army Soldiers.
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Armin Papperger, Chairman, Rheinmetall.
Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG, emphasized the advantages of having Rheinmetall as the single source for both TaWAN LBO and the previously contracted D-LBO (Digitalised Land-Based Operations) systems, noting that this streamlined approach would facilitate synchronized implementation. Papperger affirmed Rheinmetall’s commitment to providing a seamless and reliable communication network within the established timeframe, positioning the project as a flagship of German digitalization efforts.
TaWAN LBO’s primary function is to establish an open transport network for Federated Mission Networking (FMN), utilizing a Protected Core Network (PCN). This network will connect the forward tactical D-LBO networks with the rear-echelon core network CIR. Following the D-LBO contracts awarded at the end of 2024, TaWAN LBO represents another crucial milestone in strengthening the Bundeswehr’s end-to-end command capabilities. Working in conjunction with D-LBO, the TaWAN LBO network will ensure high-data-rate connectivity extending deep into the rear areas.
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The project encompasses more than just communication hardware. Rheinmetall will also supply 102 protected 8×8 HX trucks from Rheinmetall MAN to serve as carrier vehicles for the large directional radio systems. These trucks will be equipped with mobile, high extendable antenna masts. One vehicle will house the mast system itself, while another will carry a 20-foot functional container containing workstations, servers, and other essential equipment.
In addition to the large directional radio systems, smaller mobile extendable antenna masts will be deployed on other vehicle platforms, forming a “small directional radio system.” A software-based directional radio management system will be integrated into the overall solution, ensuring the functionality of the directional radio system and facilitating operational planning and execution. This comprehensive approach aims to provide the Bundeswehr with a robust and adaptable communications infrastructure capable of meeting the demands of modern military operations.
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