Germany Expands Army Capabilities with Piranha 5 Vehicles
Germany has granted a significant contract to General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) for the delivery of Piranha 5 armored fighting vehicles. This initiative is part of the army’s broader project to enhance ground telecommunications capabilities. The contract, which is valued in the ‘three-digit million range’, includes the procurement of 256 Piranha 5 vehicles, each outfitted with a 15-meter (49-foot) Tactical Wide Area Network (TaWAN) telescopic tower. This advanced communication system will serve as a crucial point for mobile communications and directional radio management for German forces.
To ensure the operational readiness of these vehicles, GDELS will establish a facility in Neubrandenburg focused on meeting the fleet’s technical requirements, logistics, and maintenance needs. The initial delivery will consist of 58 vehicles, expected to be operational by 2026, marking a significant step in the modernization of Germany’s military capabilities.
Specifications and Features of Piranha 5
The Piranha 5 armored fighting vehicle boasts impressive dimensions, measuring 8 meters (26 feet) in length, and features armor protection resistant to 14.5-millimeter projectiles. Designed on an 8×8 platform, this versatile vehicle can transport up to eight personnel and is typically armed with a range of weaponry, including autocannons, missile launchers, mortars, and machine guns. Powered by either an MTU or Scania engine, the Piranha 5 generates up to 600 horsepower, enabling it to reach a top speed of 100 kilometers (62 miles) per hour and a range exceeding 500 kilometers (311 miles).
These capabilities make the Piranha 5 a formidable addition to Germany’s ground forces, enhancing both mobility and firepower on the battlefield. The integration of advanced technology within this vehicle underscores Germany’s commitment to maintaining a modern and effective military.
Modernizing Communication with TaWAN
As part of a strategic initiative, Germany’s Tactical Wide Area Network (TaWAN) project aims to upgrade the army’s communication systems for command and control operations across evolving battlefield scenarios. The Piranha vehicles will play a pivotal role in this modernization effort, as the communication equipment will be installed in 6-meter (20-foot) containers, which will be transported by around 102 8×8 HX military trucks. This comprehensive approach ensures that troops are equipped with reliable and efficient communication tools necessary for effective operations.
This modernization project is not isolated, as Berlin awarded the main TaWAN contract to local defense contractor Rheinmetall earlier this year. Valued at 1.88 billion euros ($1.97 billion), this framework agreement has the potential for further expansion if all options are activated from 2026 to 2029, indicating Germany’s long-term commitment to enhancing its military capabilities.
