In a significant development, the budget committee of the Bundestag, Germany’s parliament, has given its approval for the production and delivery of an initial batch of 2,600 Panzerabwehrrichtmine Deutsches Modell 22 (PARM DM22) anti-tank mines. These anti-tank mines are set to replace previously supplied mines to Ukraine, with Germany having generously provided 14,900 anti-tank mines to Ukraine. The production and delivery of these advanced DM22 mines, which are estimated to cost EUR 68 million (over USD 72 million), will be funded through resources allocated to partner countries for equipment and training. These funds are managed by the German Ministry of Defense and the Foreign Ministry, ensuring a seamless and efficient process. Deliveries of the DM22 anti-tank mines are scheduled to commence in 2026, reaffirming Germany’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in bolstering its defense capabilities. The framework agreement for the production of DM22 anti-tank mines has been established with TDW, a subsidiary of MBDA. This comprehensive agreement includes an option to produce an additional 10,000 units of this advanced weapon, underlining Germany’s commitment to enhancing the security and defense capabilities of its partners.
The PARM DM22 represents a significant advancement in German off-route mine technology. The acronym “PARM” stands for PanzerAbwehrRichtMine, which translates to anti-tank directional mine. This mine can be effectively employed for a wide range of strategic purposes, thanks to its innovative design. The PARM DM22 features a versatile mounting system on a small tripod, enabling it to be easily adjusted through 360 degrees, elevated to 90 degrees, and depressed to -45 degrees. Furthermore, it incorporates a 5-minute arming delay and can be detonated either via command or through a fiber optic trigger cable, which activates the mine when it is triggered or crushed. The PARM DM22, an evolution of the PARM DM12 off-route anti-tank mine, comes equipped with a sensor system known as SAPIR (Sensor Active Passive Infrared). This addition significantly expands the mine’s tactical utility and enhances its effective range from 2–40 meters to an impressive 4–100 meters. The development of this mine traces back to the early 1980s, with extensive trials conducted between March 1983 and March 1988.
The Bundeswehr embraced this innovative mine in June 1988, with the first batch of 25,000 units being delivered to the German Army between 1991 and 1994. One of the key improvements in the PARM DM22 is the incorporation of an infra-red sensor, the SAPIR, which plays a pivotal role in accurately firing the rocket to ranges of up to 100 meters (330 feet). Furthermore, the warhead of the PARM DM22 has been upgraded to offer enhanced armor penetration capabilities of up to 750 millimeters (30 inches), making it highly effective against reactive armor. Additionally, it features programmable settings that allow the mine to remain active for periods ranging from several hours to up to 30 days, ensuring maximum adaptability in various operational scenarios. With the Bundestag’s approval and the impending production of the PARM DM22 anti-tank mines, Germany is set to play a vital role in bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities, further solidifying its commitment to regional security and stability.
