Loitering munition: NATO customer orders several hundred Hero systems from Rheinmetall

The identity of the customer remains undisclosed: an unspecified NATO customer has contracted Rheinmetall to supply Hero loitering munition (LM) systems. A total of several hundred systems were ordered this year, and the contract value is in the low three-digit million range. Deliveries are to begin in early 2026 and be completed by the end of the same year. The LM systems are built in Italy by RWM Italia, supported by its partner UVision Air.

The Hero systems ordered are equipped with the latest generation of high-performance anti-tank warheads developed by Rheinmetall. Series production of the loitering munitions at the RWM Italia plant is currently running at full speed.

Three sizes of the Hero loitering munition

The current product range comprises three models. The Hero 30 is small, portable and intended for the infantry. As a medium-sized system, the Hero 120 precisely attacks armoured vehicles and fixed installations. Finally, the Hero 400 is a medium- to long-range LM designed for precision strikes on fortified positions.

Customers currently include several European NATO states. In addition to loitering munitions, Rheinmetall also offers drones in this field, such as the Luna NG reconnaissance drone and other models of various classes. Partners in this business area also include other well-known companies such as Lockheed Martin, Anduril and Auterion.