Finding NEMO

Within the framework of the international Common Armoured Vehicle System (CAVS) program, Germany will implement the future Indirect Fire system in the short-range heavy variant (ZukSysIndF kRw schwer). This significant project includes both 120mm mortar systems and fire control vehicles based on the CAVS carrier platform. 

With the contract signed today at the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, the procurement of verification models as well as support for integrated verification management is agreed upon. Participation in the international CAVS program ensures a high logistical level of the carrier platform and promotes interoperability with other NATO nations. This lays the groundwork for future cooperations, especially in the field of mortar systems. 

The ZukSysIndF kRw schwer project will replace the existing 120mm mortars and their carrier vehicles. The basic technical maturity of the new system has already been confirmed in a maturity analysis. "The contract for series development and qualification of the verification models represents a first milestone in Germany's participation in the international CAVS program," explains the responsible project manager of the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment. "After Germany's accession to the CAVS program in 2023 and the signing of the Joint Research and Development Agreement in 2024, this contract enables the realization of the German variant of the heavy mortar as well as the qualification of national adjustments." 

Following last week's contract signing, the first delivery of mortars is already scheduled for the first half of 2025, followed by the second delivery in the third quarter of 2026. The delivery of the fire control vehicles is also expected in the third quarter of 2026. The qualification is planned to be completed by the end of 2027. The implementation of the contract is a significant step towards integrating German components, such as command and weapon systems, and towards the logistical integration of the platform into the Bundeswehr. After successful qualification, the first series production of mortars and fire control vehicles is planned for 2028. The details regarding series procurement are currently being negotiated in a separate procurement framework contract. 

Background CAVS

The cooperation program CAVS involves the development of a unified platform of a military wheeled vehicle with a 6x6 drive. The platform is designed modularly and can be configured in various variants starting from a base variant through interfaces and modifications. The program also includes the training and logistical supply system for the respective variants. In addition to Germany and the leading nation Finland, Latvia and Sweden are also participating in the joint initiative. The "Heavy Mortar" variant is now being introduced as a new variant. 

BUNDESWEHR online