Rheinmetall Secures Multi-Million Euro Deal for 155mm Artillery Ammunition with NATO Partner
Long-time NATO client awarded the South African branch Rheinmetall Denel Munition a framework agreement for the provision of 155mm ammunition from the proven Assegai product series. The contract value falls within the mid three-digit million EUR spectrum. This framework pact was formalized in December and spans a duration of five years.
The five-year framework agreement entails the supply of 155mm M2005 V-LAP (Velocity Enhanced Long Range Artillery Projectile) projectiles, M92 modular charges, and various fuzes. The 155mm M2005 V-LAP projectile boasts a substantial fragmentation effect along with enhanced range through advanced rocket and base bleed technologies. The rocket-assisted V-LAP projectile, combined with the Assegai M92 tactical charges, features properties that reduce barrel erosion as well as muzzle signature. It is engineered in accordance with NATO Joint Ballistics Memorandum of Understanding (JBMoU) standards and is qualified per STANAG regulations. This ammunition is already in use in multiple NATO nations.
“We are delighted to assist our long-term NATO ally with Rheinmetall’s industry-leading long-range artillery solutions. Framework agreements ensure long-term ammunition supply reliability and a versatile system for acquiring ammunition throughout the year,” remarked Jan-Patrick Helmsen, CEO of Rheinmetall Denel Munition. “The rocket-assisted V-LAP and the tactical Assegai charges M92 with barrel wear and muzzle flash reduction capabilities will be advantageous for both the soldiers on the front lines and the logistics and maintenance teams.”
The M2005 HE V-LAP projectile represents the cutting edge of contemporary artillery innovation and offers extended-range interdiction ability against soft targets and lightly-armored vehicles, while also disrupting logistical supply chains beyond immediate combat zones. The M2005 projectile is compatible with standard NATO fuzes and JBMoU compliant modular charge systems and can be fired from any relevant 155mm weapon platform. The base drag reduction and rocket assistance enhance the range efficiency of Assegai without imposing special operational and logistical requirements.
Jointly held by Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH (51%) of Germany and Denel (Pty) Ltd, Rheinmetall Denel Munition manufactures a diverse array of ammunition, including 155 mm artillery shells, 60, 81, and 120 mm mortars, 40 mm grenades, as well as 76/62 mm Naval Rounds, aerial bombs, and mine breaching systems. Rheinmetall Denel Munition also constructs ammunition filling plants for export and produces missile subsystems.
