General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) announced on 20 October 2025 that it has been commissioned by Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) to deliver the next-generation reconnaissance vehicle for the German Army Reconnaissance Corps, to be introduced as the Luchs 2. The acquisition has a contract value of approximately EUR 3 billion.
The Luchs 2 reconnaissance vehicle will be based on the most modern Piranha 6×6 armoured vehicle variant, which features an amphibious capability and will succeed the Fennek light 4×4 reconnaissance vehicle.
“The highly specialised reconnaissance vehicle system, which will set new standards in terms of autonomy and acoustic as well as thermal signature, features state-of-the-art, networked reconnaissance sensor technology, superior mobility and assertiveness,” GDELS stated.
The scope of delivery will include training equipment and simulators, as well as logistical support services.
Dr Thomas Kauffmann, GDELS chief sales officer and managing director of GDELS Deutschland, was quoted in a company press release as stating, “It is both an honour and an obligation for us to have been selected as the prime contractor for the development and delivery of the new reconnaissance vehicle for the Bundeswehr’s Army Reconnaissance Force. We are proud to have prevailed in a competitive acquisition of this highly technologically demanding key project. Now, our primary objective is to deliver the new reconnaissance vehicle, in collaboration with our partners, to the troops in accordance with the contract on cost and schedule. We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved, especially the German procurement agency BAAINBw, for their professional, constructive, and goal-oriented co-operation.”
