Loitering munition FV-014: Bundeswehr awards Rheinmetall major contract

The Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces) is procuring FV-014 loitering munition on a large scale: Rheinmetall has received the corresponding major contract, which was signed in Koblenz. The systems will be qualified from the second quarter of 2026; the first deliveries are scheduled for the first half of 2027.

The value of the framework contract runs into the billions, with the first call-off accounting for around 300 million euros gross. The order will be booked in April 2026. In addition, the contract includes an option for a five-digit number of FV-014, an autonomous drone for recce and strike.

Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG, commented:

Within a very short time, Rheinmetall has developed an autonomous drone that combines reconnaissance and effect. With the FV-014, the Bundeswehr will receive a further weapon system with which it can protect its own forces and engage critical targets quickly, in a controlled manner and effectively. We are grateful for the trust placed in us and will very soon be producing the system on an industrial scale in large numbers— Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG

Performance data of the loitering munition

The FV-014 has a maximum range of 100 kilometres, and its warhead including fuze weighs around 4 kilograms. The drone can stay airborne for up to 70 minutes, observing targets before it strikes. The system, which combines intelligence with striking power, is manufactured entirely within the EU.