Bundes military leans on collaboration and progress in response to indirect artillery
Germany Signs Contract for Future Heavy Mortar System within CAVS Program
In a significant move, Germany has agreed to a contract to implement the future Indirect Fire system in the short-range heavy variant, known as ZukSysIndF kRw schwer. This project focuses on 120mm mortar systems and fire control vehicles based on the Common Armoured Vehicle System (CAVS) carrier platform.
The agreement, signed at the German Armed Forces procurement office, secures the procurement of test models and support for integrated testing. Participation in the international CAVS program ensures a high degree of logistical coverage for the carrier platform and fosters interoperability with other NATO nations, setting the stage for future cooperation, particularly in the realm of mortar systems.
The ZukSysIndF kRw schwer project aims to replace existing 120mm mortars and their carrier vehicles with the new system, whose technical maturity has already been confirmed.
The project manager at the procurement office explained, "This contract for series production and qualification of test models marks the first milestone in Germany's participation in the international CAVS program. After joining the CAVS program in 2023 and signing the Joint Research and Development Agreement in 2024, this contract enables the realization of the German variant of the heavy mortar and the qualification of national adaptations."
Following the contract's signing, the first delivery of mortars is expected in the first half of 2025, followed by the second delivery in the third quarter of 2026. Delivery of the fire control vehicles is anticipated in the third quarter of 2026. Qualification is planned for the end of 2027.
The implementation of the contract is a crucial step in integrating German components, such as command and weapon deployment systems, and in integrating the platform logistically into the German Armed Forces. After successful qualification, the first series delivery of mortars and fire control vehicles is expected in 2028, with the specifics of series procurement being currently negotiated in a separate framework contract.
The CAVS program encompasses several participating nations, with Finland, Latvia, Sweden, and Germany actively collaborating to develop a standardized military wheeled vehicle platform with a 6x6 drive. The platform is modular and can be customized for various functions, from troop carriers to command vehicles and mortar carriers.
While specific details regarding the German heavy mortar system are not always publicly disclosed, the CAVS program does consider mortar carrier variants as part of its fleet. However, official documentation does not specify a dedicated German heavy mortar system by the name “ZukSysIndF kRw schwer.”
As of December 2023, there is no publicly available information confirming an official German heavy mortar system integrated within the CAVS program. Updates from official German defense sources or the CAVS consortium would be necessary for the latest status.
The implementation of technology within the Common Armoured Vehicle System (CAVS) program, specifically the future heavy mortar system known as ZukSysIndF kRw schwer, will revolutionize sports-like competition in military scenarios. As Germany's participation in the CAVS program fosters interoperability with NATO nations, it opens opportunities for international sportsman-like competition and joint training exercises within the military domain, leveraging advanced sports techniques and tactics.
Furthermore, the ZukSysIndF kRw schwer project, with its focus on 120mm mortars, can be compared to the precision and power of modern sports equipment, like cutting-edge golf clubs or tennis racquets, demonstrating a similar blend of technology and human skill. The project's aim to replace existing systems and enhance the German Armed Forces' capabilities mirrors the pursuit of personal bests and continual improvement in sports, reinforcing the link between technology and athleticism.
