Germany orders €1b in infantry gear from Rheinmetall

Germany's armed forces have placed a €1.04 billion order for infantry equipment with defence contractor Rheinmetall, the company said on Monday, as Berlin steps up military procurement, reported dpa.

The order covers equipment known as Infantryman of the Future – Enhanced System, Rheinmetall said in a statement from Dusseldorf.

The package includes protective vests, uniforms and night-vision devices mounted on helmets or weapons, as well as tablets carried by troops to provide an overview of suspected enemy positions.

The system also features software enabling commanders to track, in real time, the positions of their own forces and opposing units. Weapons are not part of the contract.

The infantry systems, intended for around 8,600 soldiers, are scheduled for delivery between November 2027 and December 2029.

The order falls under a broader framework agreement worth €3.1 billion. Additional orders are expected.

Digital networking of infantry units has become increasingly important in modern warfare, enabling coordination with satellites, drones, tanks and artillery, and allowing troops to receive rapid updates on enemy movements.

Rheinmetall markets the system internationally under the name Gladius 2.0, while the version ordered is tailored specifically to the needs of Germany's Bundeswehr.

Amid heightened security concerns following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Rheinmetall has secured a record volume of orders in recent years, fuelled by increased defence spending in Germany for tanks, ammunition and satellites.