Germany Selects General Dynamics’ Piranha 5 for Tactical Network Expansion

Germany has signed a major contract with General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) to supply Piranha 5 armored fighting vehicles as part of its ambitious Tactical Wide Area Network (TaWAN) expansion project. The deal, valued in the "three-digit-million range," will see 256 Piranha 5 vehicles integrated into the German Army’s mobile telecommunications and command network.

Strengthening Germany’s Battlefield Connectivity

The Piranha 5 vehicles will serve as mobile communication hubs, each mounted with a 15-meter (49-foot) Tactical Wide Area Network (TaWAN) telescopic tower. This advanced system will enable secure and seamless communications across the battlefield, improving command and control capabilities. Germany is investing heavily in modernizing its networked warfare systems, ensuring real-time data transmission and coordination among ground forces.

Delivery Timeline and Local Industrial Support

GDELS will deliver the first batch of 58 Piranha 5 vehicles in 2026, with subsequent deliveries planned thereafter. To support the long-term operation and maintenance of the fleet, GDELS is constructing a dedicated facility in Neubrandenburg. This strategic move will not only enhance logistical support but also contribute to local defense manufacturing and job creation.

“We are very grateful and proud of the trust the Bundeswehr and our industrial partners have placed in GDELS,” said Dr. Thomas Kauffmann, Vice President of GDELS and Managing Director of GDELS-Deutschland. “This project demonstrates our commitment to being a reliable partner for the Bundeswehr.”

Piranha 5: A Versatile Armored Fighting Vehicle

The Piranha 5 is an 8×8 wheeled armored fighting vehicle with exceptional mobility and protection. It weighs approximately 30 tons (66,138 pounds) and measures 8 meters (26 feet) in length. Its armor provides resistance against 14.5mm caliber threats, ensuring crew safety in high-intensity combat environments.

The vehicle can be equipped with a variety of weapons, including autocannons, machine guns, missile launchers, and mortars, depending on mission requirements. Its interior can accommodate up to eight fully armed personnel.

Powered by an MTU or Scania engine delivering up to 600 horsepower, the Piranha 5 can reach speeds of 100 km/h (62 mph) and boasts an operational range of over 500 kilometers (311 miles), making it highly effective for both offensive and defensive operations.

Germany’s TaWAN Modernization Effort

The Tactical Wide Area Network (TaWAN) project is a major initiative aimed at enhancing the German Army’s digital battlefield capabilities. Alongside the Piranha 5 vehicles, the network infrastructure will include specialized communication equipment housed in 6-meter (20-foot) containers, which will be transported by approximately 102 8×8 HX military trucks.

Rheinmetall, a key defense contractor, was awarded the primary contract for the TaWAN system in January. The initial contract is valued at €1.88 billion ($1.97 billion), with further expansions planned between 2026 and 2029. If all options are exercised, the program's value is expected to rise significantly.

A Leap Forward for Germany’s Defense Capabilities

By integrating advanced communication systems with modern armored vehicles like the Piranha 5, Germany is taking a decisive step toward strengthening its military’s operational efficiency. The combination of secure battlefield networking and highly mobile combat vehicles will ensure that German forces remain well-connected and prepared for the challenges of modern warfare.