Billion-Dollar Deal: Rheinmetall Unveils Groundbreaking FV-014 Loitering Munitions for Bundeswehr
Rheinmetall recently secured a significant contract from the Bundeswehr for the advanced FV-014 loitering munition systems. This crucial agreement was finalized in Koblenz and marks a vital step in military technology development. Deliveries are expected to commence in the first half of 2027, following successful qualification in the second quarter of 2026. The comprehensive framework contract is valued in the billions, with the initial call-off around €300 million gross, to be booked in April 2026. Notably, this framework agreement may also encompass a substantial number of FV-014 autonomous reconnaissance and strike drones.
“In an impressively short timeframe, Rheinmetall has engineered an autonomous drone that seamlessly integrates reconnaissance and strike functionalities. The FV-014 will empower the Bundeswehr to safeguard its forces while effectively targeting critical objectives in a swift and controlled manner. We appreciate the confidence placed in us and are poised to commence large-scale industrial production of this system very soon,” stated Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG.
The FV-014 loitering munition system boasts an operational range of up to 100 km, equipped with a 4 kg warhead and an innovative detonator mechanism. The drone can remain airborne for an impressive 70 minutes, continually monitoring targets before engaging. This system perfectly marries intelligence with firepower and is entirely manufactured within the EU.
