Germany awards GDELS a €3.5B+ contract for 274 Luchs 2 recon vehicles, each costing $14.7M, despite ongoing Fennek upgrades.
Hartpunkt notes that contract, issued by Germanys Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw), covers design and production of 274 Luchs 2 reconnaissance vehicles, with an option for an additional 82 units if needed. Total value exceeds €3.5 billion ($4B), including spare parts, equipment, training simulators, logistics, and other support services.
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By rough calculation, each vehicle costs about €12.7M ($14.7M). This is significant given that the Bundeswehr already operates Fennek reconnaissance vehicles, which are currently being upgraded until 2029. The new Luchs 2 is expected both to reinforce capabilities and to replace some Fennek units.
Luchs 2 offers significant improvements over its predecessor, particularly in armament. While Fennek had only machine guns and 40mm automatic grenade launchers, Luchs 2 is equipped with a 25mm Oerlikon KBA autocannon. These cannons will be purchased separately through a Rheinmetall contract for 310 units, increasing the overall cost of the vehicles.
Built on the Piranha 6x6 chassis, Luchs 2 has a total weight of 25 tons, with 7.5 tons of payload. The vehicle features reduced acoustic and thermal signatures and amphibious capabilities.
For reconnaissance tasks, Luchs 2 carries advanced sensors. While specifics are not fully disclosed, it includes a mast with stabilized sensors usable on the move, likely from Hensoldt. An additional mast houses an electronic support measures (ESM) sensor. Rendered images also show multiple antennas and a 360° electro-optical system.
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