Other Rounds in Family Currently in Bundeswehr Qualification Trials

Diehl Defence has signed a basic production and delivery agreement to supply 127mm practice ammunition for the German Navy’s F125 BADEN-WURTTEMBERG-class frigates.

In addition to existing HE and illuminating rounds, the practice round provides Diehl with a new entry in the international marketplace. Initial deliveries are scheduled for 2021, followed by several production batches in 2022-2025, for a total of 7,000 rounds – which could increase to as many as 13,000 by 2027.

The HE round remains in the Bundeswehr qualification process, which is expected to be completed next year. The illuminating round, for which Diehl and EXPAL are collaborating, is also currently undergoing Bundeswehr qualification trials.

The new family of ammunition offers users significantly extended ranges, thanks to improved propellant charges. The family is inherently safer, too, making use of insensitive explosive, and features a Leonardo multi-functional fuze.