The German-Israeli joint venture presented the TAHR at the 10th KSK Defence Symposium in Altensteig-Wart. FTS said the pre-series vehicle had been completed ahead of schedule.
TAHR will be available as a light airborne combat vehicle and a light airborne support vehicle. Both variants use a highly mobile, all-terrain platform that is already combat proven and in service.
FTS adapted the platform to meet the KSK’s mission requirements. The combat variant has an open design that provides personnel with a clear view of their immediate surroundings and supports the integration of different weapon systems.
Two TAHR vehicles can be carried simultaneously inside a CH-47 Chinook helicopter. FTS said they can reach full combat readiness shortly after landing and leaving the aircraft.
Brigadier General Andreas Kühne, commander of the KSK, said the force required high mobility for operations worldwide. “With the TAHR, we are getting an operational and combat vehicle that is air-droppable and ready for deployment in any terrain.”
Kühne said the programme had progressed rapidly through cooperation between FTS, the KSK and Germany’s procurement authority. “Together, we have succeeded in advancing this important armament project for the KSK in such a way that the first pre-series vehicle can be presented within just one year.”
Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support signed the framework agreement with FTS. The company did not disclose its value or provide a schedule for serial deliveries.
IAI Chief Executive Guy Bar Lev said the programme formed part of a wider defence relationship with Germany. “IAI views Germany as a strategic partner in developing joint defense capabilities over the long term.”
FTS Managing Director Jörg Kamper said the early presentation would support the future readiness of the Bundeswehr and the KSK. “We are proud to be making a direct contribution to the future operational readiness of the Bundeswehr and the KSK by presenting the first pre-series vehicle ahead of schedule.”
FTS is based in Flensburg and is owned by FFG Flensburger Fahrzeugbau Gesellschaft and IAI subsidiary ELTA Systems. It integrates FFG vehicle platforms with IAI and ELTA technologies in robotics, autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, digitalisation, networking, electronic warfare and situational awareness.
