Rheinmetall has received a major order from the Bundeswehr for FV-014 loitering munition systems. A contract to that effect was signed today in Koblenz. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in the first half of 2027, following qualification from the second quarter of 2026. The framework contract is worth billions, with the first call-off amounting to approximately €300m gross. The order will be booked in April 2026. The framework agreement optionally includes a five-figure number of FV-014 autonomous recce and strike drones. The FV-014 loitering munition system has a range of up to 100 km and is equipped with a 4 kg warhead and detonator mechanism. The drone can remain airborne for up to 70 minutes, monitoring targets until engaging on them. The system combines intelligence and firepower and is manufactured entirely within the EU.
“Within a very short time, Rheinmetall has developed an autonomous drone that combines reconnaissance and strike capabilities. The FV-014 will enable the Bundeswehr to protect its own forces and engage critical targets in a fast, controlled and effective manner. We are grateful for the trust placed in us and will begin producing the system in large quantities on an industrial scale very soon”, said Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG.
The FV-014 is a state-of-the-art loitering munition system designed specifically for the demands of today’s and tomorrow’s battlespace. As a portable reconnaissance and strike drone, it combines reconnaissance and precision strike capabilities in a flexible solution, providing armed forces with decisive operational advantages from a distance. In action, the FV-014 can observe and analyse targets before striking with precision at the right moment. The operator remains engaged in the decision-making process at all times. In this way, the system helps to minimise collateral damage, protect friendly forces and engage critical threats quickly, in a precise and effective manner. As part of Rheinmetall’s portfolio of loitering munitions, the FV-014 stands for technological excellence and high operational value for modern armed forces.
Rheinmetall AG is a German automotive and arms manufacturer, headquartered in Düsseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. The group was promoted to the DAX, Germany’s leading stock market index, in March 2023. It is the largest German and fifth-largest European arms manufacturer, and produces a variety of armored fighting vehicles and armored personnel carriers, in both wheeled and tracked versions, as well as warships through Blohm+Voss. It also manufactures artillery, air defense systems, anti-tank weapons and ammunition. Its name is derived from the German-language words Rhein and Metall, translating to “Rhine-metal” when combined.
