HENSOLDT Secures Contract to Equip Bundeswehr’s Fennek Vehicles with Advanced BAA III Sensor Technology for Enhanced Reconnaissance

HENSOLDT Secures Contract to Equip Bundeswehr’s Fennek Vehicles with Advanced BAA III Sensor Technology for Enhanced Reconnaissance

(IN BRIEF) HENSOLDT has been awarded a contract to upgrade the sensor technology on 90 Fennek vehicles for the Bundeswehr, enhancing their reconnaissance and targeting capabilities. The upgrades include transitioning scout and Joint Fire Support Team vehicles to the advanced BAA III sensor package, which features a laser target designator, dual-band HDTV camera, and an improved user interface. Scheduled for delivery starting in early 2026, this modernization effort is part of a broader collaboration with the German Federal Office for Bundeswehr Equipment (BAAINBw) and prepares the vehicles for future digital integrations.

(PRESS RELEASE) OBERKOCHEN , 12-Nov-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — HENSOLDT, a leading specialist in sensor technology, has secured a contract to upgrade the sensor systems of 90 Fennek vehicles for the Bundeswehr. This modernization project will enhance the reconnaissance and targeting capabilities of the vehicles, with the scope of work including upgrades for 30 Fennek scout vehicles from the BAA I system to the advanced BAA III, as well as 50 Joint Fire Support Team (JFST) vehicles from BAA II to BAA III. Additionally, 10 BAA III units will be kept in reserve as spare parts, while two more sets will support integration and verification processes, totaling 92 units in the order valued in the mid double-digit million range.

Set to commence deliveries in the first quarter of 2026, HENSOLDT aims to complete integration swiftly to ensure the vehicles are operationally ready for the Bundeswehr. This modernization is a collaborative effort with the Federal Office for Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw), with HENSOLDT overseeing both delivery and integration of the new sensor packages as a key technology partner.

The BAA III sensor package represents a significant advancement in reconnaissance technology. Equipped with a laser target designator and dual-band HDTV camera known as ‘Red Kite,’ the system provides precise target illumination for precision weapons and enhances target detection both day and night. The camera’s capabilities in visible (VIS) and short-wave infrared (SWIR) ranges allow for improved observation of laser activity. Additionally, an upgraded operating and display unit offers greater ergonomic efficiency for soldiers in the field.

Tanya Altmann, Head of the Optronics & Land Solutions division at HENSOLDT, highlighted the upgrade’s impact, stating, “With the upgrade of the Fennek vehicles to the BAA III sensor package, we are setting a new standard in military reconnaissance. The integrated, high-precision systems offer the user superior sensor performance and make the decisive difference in complex operational scenarios. As a technology partner, we are proud to contribute to the operational capability of our armed forces with state-of-the-art optoelectronics.”

Beyond current capabilities, the BAA III is designed with future flexibility in mind, allowing for the integration of additional digital interfaces to meet evolving operational demands.

About HENSOLDT

HENSOLDT is a leading company in the European defence industry with a global reach. Based in Taufkirchen near Munich, the company develops complete sensor solutions for defence and security applications. As a system integrator, HENSOLDT offers platform-independent, networked solutions. Being a technology leader, the company is also driving forward the development of defence electronics and optronics and is continuously expanding its portfolio based on innovative approaches to data fusion, artificial intelligence and cyber security. In 2023, HENSOLDT achieved a turnover of 1.85 billion euros. Following the acquisition of ESG GmbH, the company employs around 8,000 people. HENSOLDT is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange in the MDAX.

Media Contact:

Alexander Ogger
Tel.: +49 (0)7364 9557-984
Mail: alexander.ogger@hensoldt.net

SOURCE: HENSOLDT