Rheinmetall confirms ongoing KF41 Lynx testing in Ukraine and plans for major armoured vehicle contracts

Papperger did not specify the current stage of testing but noted that no further deliveries are planned at this time, partly due to a lack of funding under German military aid. Although Ukraine has expressed a need for up to 3,000 infantry fighting vehicles, Papperger stated that current funding could realistically support only several hundred units.

Initial production of the first few dozen KF41 Lynx vehicles would take place entirely at Rheinmetall’s facility in Unterlüß, Germany. While the company still intends to establish local manufacturing in Ukraine, these plans have been postponed until 2027.

The KF41 Lynx has already been purchased by Hungary and selected by Italy, and a U.S.-modified version is being offered to the U.S. Army as a potential replacement for the M2/M3/M7 Bradley family. Papperger also addressed reports of significant procurement plans by the Bundeswehr, which is seeking to modernise and expand its ground forces.

Germany plans to replace outdated platforms such as the Fuchs armoured personnel carrier and Fennek reconnaissance vehicle and to form five to seven new combined arms brigades. According to Papperger, the German armed forces could procure 6,000 to 7,000 new armoured vehicles across multiple types, including main battle tanks.

Rheinmetall expects contracts from the Bundeswehr worth up to €70 billion and is preparing to meet growing demand through the construction of ten new production facilities, including sites outside Germany. The company plans to increase its workforce from 40,000 to 70,000 and forecasts sales growth to €40–50 billion by 2030 – around ten times its 2021 revenue.