Rheinmetall’s Puma IFV.
Rheinmetall’s Puma Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) for German Army: Berlin, 19 December 2025 — The German Bundeswehr is set to significantly expand its fleet of Puma infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) under a €4.2 billion procurement programme agreed with Projekt System & Management GmbH (PSM), a joint venture between Rheinmetall and KNDS Deutschland.
The Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw) signed an amendment to an existing framework contract in Koblenz, paving the way for the delivery of 200 additional Puma IFVs to the German Army. The contract is scheduled to take legal effect in January 2026, with the first vehicles expected to be delivered from mid-2028.
Under the agreement, the total gross contract value will be split evenly between the partners, with KNDS Deutschland and Rheinmetall subsidiary Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH each receiving €2.1 billion. Both companies will act as subcontractors in implementing the programme.
READ: Michelangelo Security Dome Scores First Major Success with Breakthrough Air-Defence Test in Italy
The expansion builds on a framework contract awarded to PSM in May 2023, which included an initial order of 50 Puma vehicles. In addition to the combat vehicles now ordered, the enlarged contract covers the procurement of protection modules and storage containers. A further amendment, planned for mid-2026, will introduce the S2 construction status aimed at eliminating obsolescence and adding new capabilities, including drone defence based on the turret of the Jackal armoured vehicle.
The Puma IFV serves as the primary weapon system of Germany’s armoured infantry and is regarded as one of the most advanced platforms in its class. The vehicle accommodates a crew of three—commander, gunner and driver—alongside six dismounted soldiers. It features modular protection and is designed for networked operations.
READ: India Opens 125 Landmark Border Infrastructure Projects in Ladakh, Enhancing Strategic Connectivity
Alongside new production, the Bundeswehr is also modernising its existing fleet. Between 2023 and 2024, BAAINBw commissioned the comprehensive upgrade of 297 Puma IFVs that did not meet the S1 series standard. Scheduled for completion by 2029, the retrofit includes high-resolution day and night vision systems, integration of the MELLS anti-tank guided missile system, and digital radio equipment.
The latest order underscores Germany’s continued investment in strengthening its armoured forces and enhancing the capabilities of its core infantry fighting vehicle fleet.
READ: Russia Offers India Lancet-3 Loitering Munition with Unprecedented Full-Cycle Tech Transfer
