New challenges are emerging in the rollout of a digital radio system for the Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces), potentially impacting a key modernization project.
According to reports, an initial system test conducted in May at the Munster training area was prematurely halted, with the equipment deemed “not troop-ready”. The primary issue identified was the complexity of the user interface software, which soldiers found difficult to navigate, hindering tasks such as establishing radio communication ranges. Additional shortcomings were also reported regarding voice communication functionality.
The complications have the potential to delay the “Digitalization of Land-Based Operations” (D-LBO) project, which is allocated several billion euros from a special fund intended to modernize the armed forces. The project aims to equip an entire army division with the new, secure radio systems by the end of 2027. Rohde & Schwarz, the manufacturer, is reportedly collaborating closely with the Bundeswehr to develop and implement a software update for the devices.
The severity of the findings has prompted notification to the Defence Minister, Boris Pistorius. A spokesperson confirmed that Pistorius was recently briefed and has instructed the State Secretary for Defence, Jens Plötner and the Inspector General of the Armed Forces, Carsten Breuer, to investigate the issues and propose solutions for rapid resolution.
The D-LBO project has been considered ambitious from its inception but is viewed as crucial for the Bundeswehr’s rapid modernization. Minister Pistorius recently stated, based on information from his ministry, that the project was proceeding as planned. However, his office appears to have been aware of the Munster test results as early as June.
Integration of the new equipment into Bundeswehr vehicles is also facing delays. Successful integration has been achieved in approximately 30 out of roughly 200 vehicle types, while work is ongoing for over 80 others. Installation attempts have not yet begun for the remaining vehicles, with initial reports of these integration challenges surfacing as early as 2023.
The Chairman of the Defence Committee has called for immediate clarification from Minister Pistorius, emphasizing the need for transparency and proposed solutions. He stressed the existential importance of the Bundeswehr’s digitalization for national defence and the security of its personnel.