NSPA Activates 120mm Ammunition Framework with First Major Call-Off Strengthening Rheinmetall’s NATO Supply Role

NSPA Activates 120mm Ammunition Framework with First Major Call-Off Strengthening Rheinmetall’s NATO Supply Role

(IN BRIEF) Rheinmetall has received its first €200 million call-off under a 2025 framework agreement with the NATO Support and Procurement Agency for 120mm tank ammunition. The agreement, structured as a Basic Contractual Instrument, defines commercial and technical standards and allows NATO and NATO-equivalent countries to order ammunition directly via NSPA, simplifying procurement procedures across the Alliance. The ammunition will serve multiple NATO member states and supports platforms such as the Leopard 2 and M1 Abrams main battle tanks. The order reinforces Rheinmetall’s position as a leading global manufacturer of 120mm smoothbore tank ammunition and highlights the growing importance of streamlined multinational defence procurement mechanisms.

(PRESS RELEASE) DÜSSELDORF, 13-Feb-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Rheinmetall has received the first call-off order valued at approximately €200 million under a framework agreement for 120mm tank ammunition signed in July 2025 with the NATO Support and Procurement Agency. The order covers a substantial volume of ammunition and will serve multiple NATO member states as end customers.

The agreement, structured as a Basic Contractual Instrument, establishes the commercial terms, technical specifications and procurement conditions for various types of 120mm tank ammunition. It enables NATO and NATO-equivalent nations to streamline acquisition procedures by placing orders directly through NSPA, simplifying and accelerating the procurement process within the Alliance.

By facilitating centralised ordering, the framework reduces administrative complexity for participating countries while ensuring standardised specifications and supply reliability. The first call-off marks the operational activation of the agreement and reinforces Rheinmetall’s position as a key supplier of large-calibre ammunition within NATO structures.

Rheinmetall’s 120mm smoothbore technology has been in operational service since 1980 and has become the established standard armament for main battle tanks in Germany and across NATO and allied forces worldwide. The system is deployed on platforms including the Leopard 2 and the M1 Abrams.

The company states that the performance characteristics and remaining growth potential of its 120mm systems allow for continued technological development and adaptation to evolving operational requirements. Through the framework agreement and subsequent call-offs, Rheinmetall aims to further consolidate its leadership in the global market for 120mm tank ammunition.

The activation of the contract underscores the importance of coordinated procurement mechanisms within NATO, particularly as member states modernise their armoured capabilities and seek secure, standardised supply chains for critical defence equipment.

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SOURCE: RHEINMETALL AG