Forth Order Calls for 666 Missiles and 82 Launchers

The Bundeswehr has ordered a further 666 MELLS anti-tank guided weapons (ATGW) and 82 integrated command and launch units from Eurospike, in a call-off valued at approx. €88 million under the framework contract concluded in 2019, Rheinmetall announced on 29 March.

This marks the Bundeswehr’s fourth order for the system from Eurospike, a joint venture of Rheinmetall (which holds 40%), Diehl Defence and Rafael. Delivery is currently scheduled for 2022-2024. MELLS is a latest-generation effector capable of defeating armoured targets at ranges up to 4,000m – or 5,500m with Rafael’s SPIKE LR-2 missile, which is compatible with the launcher.

Rheinmetall has extensive experience with MELLS, having already integrated it into the MARDER IFV and now doing so in the PUMA IFV. Another contractor is now integrating the system into the WIESEL airmobile weapon carrier. In future, enhanced networking of the integrated command and launch units with Rheinmetall’s ‘Future Soldier – Expanded System’ soldier system via the TacNet command and information system may also offer future potential. This would further optimise the sensor-to-shooter chain.