In a significant boost to Germany’s reconnaissance capabilities, the German defence procurement agency (Bundesamt für Ausrüstung, Informationstechnik und Nutzung der Bundeswehr; BAAINBw) has awarded a contract to KNDS Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG Kassel for the modernization of the Fennek reconnaissance vehicle. This strategic upgrade, aimed at enhancing both the Bundeswehr’s national and alliance defense, will see the integration of a cutting-edge observation and reconnaissance system (BAA) III across the fleet. The modernization project will cover 30 Fennek 1A2 reconnaissance vehicles and 50 Joint Fire Support Team (JFST) Fenneks. This initiative also includes a circulating reserve, which will substantially improve the operational readiness of the vehicles for various training, exercises, and mission-like engagements.
The financial backing for this modernization effort was secured at the end of June, with the Budget Committee of the German Bundestag approving a 25 million euro proposal. This funding, sourced from the Bundeswehr special fund and the regular defense budget, will enable the delivery and integration of the new BAA systems between 2027 and 2029. The circulating reserve will serve as initial spare parts, ensuring sustained operational capability. The Fennek reconnaissance vehicle, which has been a key asset in the German Army since 2003, is set to receive a state-of-the-art BAA system. This system features a thermal imaging device, a day-vision camera, and a laser rangefinder, all mounted on an extendable mast with a rotating and tilting platform. Additionally, the Fennek is often fitted with Aladin miniature UAVs, further enhancing its reconnaissance capabilities.
The Fennek, produced jointly by Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and Dutch Defence Vehicle Systems is a versatile four-wheeled armored reconnaissance vehicle designed for high-speed operations and adaptable to various terrains. The modernization will also include the integration of a laser target designator, enhancing the vehicle’s ability to guide laser-guided munitions accurately. The BAA system’s enhanced capabilities will provide a uniform, advanced reconnaissance technology across a significant portion of the Fennek fleet. Equipped with a Deutz diesel engine producing 179 kW and capable of reaching speeds up to 115 km/h, the Fennek features selectable two or four-wheel drive and adjustable tire pressure for terrain suitability. The vehicle is protected all-round against 7.62 mm rounds and additional armour can be added if the mission requires. The air conditioning system provides protection against nuclear, biological and chemical warfare and the crew compartment is protected against anti-personnel mines.
The Fennek reconnaissance vehicles variant has a The BAA surveillance module which is installed on a mast raising up to 1.5 m high. The BAA module has a laser range finder, a digital camera and a thermal imager. The mast can also be mounted on a tripod, and operated from a distance (40 m). The LVB is the main variant in service, it entered in service with the A1 standard (equipped with RCWS KMW 1530), and evolved to the A2 (equipped with RCWS FLW 200, ied jamming equipment CG-20, front protection and IR headlights). The Fennek JFST (Joint Fire Support Team) variants offer specialized capabilities to support tactical operations and reconnaissance. Among these, the TACP (Tactical Air Control Party) variant stands out with its advanced communication systems designed to facilitate seamless air support coordination for ground forces. In contrast, the Forward observer variant is tailored for forward observation roles, featuring upgraded observation and reconnaissance equipment,
