Anti-tank missile system MELLS for the German infantry

Rheinmetall has received an order from the Bundeswehr, together with its joint venture partners Diehl Defence and Rafael, to deliver modern anti-tank guided missiles MELLS. Rheinmetall will supply key components to Eurospike, the manufacturer of the Multi-Purpose Lightweight Missile System (MELLS). This order represents a net inflow of over 30 million EUR for Rheinmetall. Deliveries will begin in 2020 and continue until 2023. The framework agreement also includes the optional production and delivery of approximately 100 weapon systems and a five-digit number of component sets for the MELLS missile from 2024 to 2031.

The MELLS missiles now ordered by the Bundeswehr are intended for infantry use. Rheinmetall will deliver over 100 weapon systems ("Integrated Command and Launch Unit") including transport and storage containers, as well as 1,500 sets of components for the Spike LR (Long Range) guided missile manufactured by Rafael.

The MELLS, manufactured by Eurospike - a joint venture of Rheinmetall, Diehl Defence, and Rafael, in which Rheinmetall holds a 40 percent stake - is a modern effector of the latest generation. It can be used against armored ground targets at distances of up to 4,000 meters.

Rheinmetall has proven expertise in MELLS. The company has already integrated the modern guided missile into the Marder infantry fighting vehicle and currently into the Puma infantry fighting vehicle. Integration into the airborne weapon carrier Wiesel is also being carried out by another company.

In the longer term, the further networking of the weapon systems and guided missiles with the "Future Soldier - Expanded System" system, also supplied by Rheinmetall, via the TacNet command and control system offers future potential. This can further optimize the sensor-to-shooter chain. HERE for more information about the weapon system.

EUROSPIKE online: www.eurospike.com