A key focus is the approval of a guided missile system, the Small Anti-Drone Missile, for use with the Skyranger 30. According to the defence ministry, “Mit dem Lenkflugkörper Small Anti-Drone Missile in Kombination mit einer 30-Millimeter-Kanone kann der Skyranger 30 Klein- und Kleinstdrohnen abwehren.”
The Skyranger 30 will be the Bundeswehr’s first armoured system capable of countering small and very small drones at the frontline. The system is expected to be considered for the European Sky Shield Initiative as a procurement option.
The committee also approved framework agreements for the production and delivery of the P13 pistol and its accessories, replacing the ageing P8 sidearm. The ministry noted that the new weapon will address “technische und ergonomische Defizite der aktuell genutzten Pistole P8” and provide modern equipment for situations where the pistol is the only or secondary weapon.
Other approved projects include modular kits for patient transport using A400M and C-130J aircraft, which will expand medical airlift capacity by 2029. The ministry said, “Damit wird die Fähigkeit der Bundeswehr zum effizienten Verwundetentransport mit militärischen Transportluftfahrzeuge erheblich verbessert.”
The committee also greenlit modernisation of the RAM launcher system on German Navy ships and procurement of additional RAM Block 2B missiles, set for delivery between 2030 and 2032. These upgrades support NATO surface fleet requirements and ensure long-term part supply and system readiness.
An updated support contract with BWI was approved to continue assistance with major digitalisation projects, including “Digitalisierung Landbasierter Operationen.” The ministry confirmed BWI system engineers will remain involved in supporting land forces’ digital transition.
Funding was also approved for further items such as portable radio systems via foreign military sales, thermal imaging sights to enhance MG4 and G36 rifle capabilities, and containerised mobile field kitchens. Additionally, the Bundeswehr will acquire modular fire protection containers, new secure networking equipment under the SINA programme, and begin work on a standardised maritime command and weapon deployment system with Canadian cooperation.
A satellite operator contract was signed with the German Aerospace Centre for the Heinrich Hertz mission, which includes a military component. This satellite will boost the Bundeswehr’s secure transmission capabilities and forms part of an interdepartmental initiative with the Ministry of Research, Technology and Space.
Source: German Ministry of Defence.
