The German Federal Ministry of Defence has reportedly requested that the Bundestag’s Budget Committee approve an additional project to procure so‑called “loitering munitions” from the weapons manufacturer Rhein Metall this week. A €25 million draft was sent to parliamentarians, the “Spiegel” reports.
The Ministry has already placed orders for similar munitions with the two drone‑specialised suppliers Helsing and Stark. Now Rhein Metall is being asked to win the contract as well. The initial package would be worth nearly €300 million, although the unit prices and quantities have not yet been disclosed to the MPs.
According to the information, Rhein Metall would supply ground stations and flight vehicles, along with training manuals and simulators, for the €300 million order, and it would also conduct the initial training. The Ministry intends to conclude a framework agreement with the company valued at €2.387 billion.
The drones, which Rhein Metall calls “Raider”, are described by the Defence Ministry as a new development. They are expected to complement the drones from Helsing and Stark thanks to their optical sensors. By the end of April 2027, Rhein Metall must meet all requirements for the pending final qualification; otherwise the Ministry may rescind the contract.