AGDUS Will Enable Units to “Train As You Fight”
At the end of last year, Rheinmetall received an order for AGDUS simulation systems for the Bundeswehr’s PUMA IFVs, which will make an important contribution to the readiness of German mechanised infantry units. Total contract value could rise to €142 million.
An initial pre-series of six systems will be developed and integrated, for which the value to Rheinmetall comes to €54 million. Once the system is ready for full series production, an option exists for equipping 252 vehicles, which would result in an additional order for Rheinmetall worth around €88 million.
Each AGDUS set consists of laser detectors distributed around the vehicle as well as eye-safe lasers capable of simulating the effects of the PUMA’s principal weapon systems: the automatic cannon, machinegun and MELLS antitank guided missile. Laser algorithms are programmed to assure ballistically precise simulation of shots and hits. AGDUS also enables simulation of the PUMA’s turret-independent secondary weapon system (TSWA) and self-defence systems. As a result, extremely realistic exercises can be conducted and evaluated at the German Army Combat Training Centre and other training facilities.
Most work to complete these orders will be conducted at Rheinmetall facilities in Bremen and Unterluß.