SMG: Rheinmetall to supply the Bundeswehr with intercom with hearing protection function. (Rheinmetall)
Strong partnership with 3M Deutschland GmbH, CeoTronics AG and L.I.T. Solutions GmbH
Rheinmetall has been delivering intercom with hearing protection function to the Bundeswehr since 2024. The intercom with hearing protection function – SMG (Sprechsatz mit Gehörschutzfunktion) is designed to ensure uniform communication and protection equipment for the entire Bundeswehr. It is one of the central sub-projects of the ‘task-oriented equipment (aoA – aufgabenorientierte Ausstattung)’ programme. With this project, the Bundeswehr is pursuing the goal of sustainably improving the personal equipment of all soldiers.
In addition to protecting hearing, the system offers 360-degree perception of ambient noise and enables unrestricted communication capability via various radio devices and on-board communication systems. The system is compatible with existing equipment and increases the operational value and protection of every soldier.
Rheinmetall as contractual partner of BAAINBw
Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH was able to prevail in a demanding tendering process in the competition. Since April 2024, the company has been acting as a contractual partner of the Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw). The framework agreement is set to run until December 2031, enabling the procurement of up to 191,000 SMG systems. Further deliveries under the framework agreement have already been agreed until the end of 2025.
Innovative technology and strong partnerships
The SMG system is based on state-of-the-art technology and European manufacturing. As the prime contractor, Rheinmetall is responsible not only for system integration but also for the functionality and reliability of all components. Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH has a state-of-the-art audio laboratory for this purpose, where all system functions can be tested under simulated conditions.
The industrial partners play a particularly important role here: 3M Deutschland GmbH supplies the Peltor Comtac VIII, the latest generation of its hearing protection headset, which has been specially adapted to the requirements of the Bundeswehr and is fully compatible with the push-to-talk (PTT) buttons and adapter cables from CeoTronics AG.
CeoTronics ensures seamless integration with a wide range of handheld radios and on-board communication systems by providing a variety of PTT variants and adapters. CeoTronics‘ components are thus at the heart of the system’s functionality.
In the area of logistics, Rheinmetall is working together with L.I.T. Solutions GmbH of Bremen, which is providing active support in the areas of logistics, transport and order picking. Along with CeoTronics and 3M, L.I.T. is another important link in the supply chain.
Positive response and a look into the future
The feedback from user trials to date confirms the high quality and practicality of the system. The SMG system has been thoroughly tested in intensive trials and found to be operationally effective.
Rheinmetall is optimistic that further call-offs from the framework agreement will follow. The cooperation with subcontractors 3M Deutschland and CeoTronics has not only proved extremely successful in this project, but also lays a solid foundation for future joint ventures.
The SMG system marks another important milestone on the road to modernising the equipment of the Bundeswehr. The project is a prime example of successful cooperation between the Bundeswehr and industry and has the potential to make the turning point in time ‘audible’ for every single soldier, in the truest sense of the Word.
