Bundeswehr Boosts Firepower with 120mm Tank Rounds from Rheinmetall

The German Bundeswehr has amplified an existing framework agreement with Rheinmetall to €4 billion for the provision of tank munitions. This order highlights Rheinmetall’s position as a key supplier of 120mm tank munitions to the German military. It also demonstrates the German armed forces’ dedication to enhancing their operational capacity and expanding ammunition reserves in response to the evolving security landscape. Moreover, the framework agreement includes a substantial quantity of tank munitions for the Ukrainian armed forces.

According to the recently finalized framework agreement, the Bundeswehr has the potential to acquire several hundred thousand rounds of 120mm x 570 cal. service and training ammunition, the kind used by the Leopard 2 main battle tank, for instance. Valued at approximately €309 million, a preliminary order of munitions was placed immediately following the contract’s ratification.

The delivery scope comprises versatile tank munitions featuring a non-programmable fuse as well as another type that can be programmed for three distinct ignition settings: detonation upon impact with and without a time delay, as well as a timed airburst capability. The order also includes various forms of training munitions that offer reduced range and affordability while maintaining similar ballistic properties.

For numerous nations employing the Leopard 2, Rheinmetall serves as the primary provider of ammunition for the tank’s 120mm smoothbore main weapon. The armed forces of Germany, along with several allied nations, have established framework contracts with Rheinmetall to ensure a consistent long-term supply of ammunition. This arrangement facilitates improved production planning and optimal utilization of current capacity. Thanks to the continuous manufacturing of various ammunition types throughout the contract’s duration and the resultant quick availability, the framework agreement presents significant logistical benefits. For Rheinmetall, this contractual setup guarantees robust utilization of tank munitions capacity for years ahead.