Germany Prepares Third Puma Infantry Fighting Vehicle Order to Expand Mechanized Forces.

Germany is preparing a possible third order of Puma infantry fighting vehicles in 2027 as the Bundeswehr expands its mechanized combat formations. The prospective multibillion-euro purchase would deepen Germany’s shift toward larger, digitally connected heavy forces built for NATO collective defense in Europe.

The potential follow-on order would extend a Puma procurement program already reinforced by Germany’s December 2025 purchase of 200 additional vehicles for about €4.2 billion, with first deliveries scheduled from mid-2028. The Bundeswehr is increasingly treating the Puma not simply as a replacement for the Cold War-era Marder, but as the standard infantry fighting vehicle for Panzergrenadier formations operating alongside Leopard 2 tanks in high-intensity combat. The latest Puma S1 configuration adds digital command equipment, improved optical systems and the MELLS anti-tank guided missile system, providing German mechanized infantry with a more capable vehicle for networked combined-arms operations. The Bundeswehr intends to bring its Puma-equipped formations toward a common S1 configuration through both new production and modernization of existing vehicles.

Related News: Germany Expands Rheinmetall Puma IFV Contract With Major 30mm Ammunition Order

Puma infantry fighting vehicle developed by Rheinmetall and KNDS for the German Army, equipped with a 30 mm MK30-2/ABM cannon and designed to operate alongside Leopard 2 main battle tanks. (Picture source: Rheinmetall)

The Puma was officially handed over to the German Army on June 24, 2015. The initial planning covered 350 vehicles, including those intended for instruction and training. The first 20 were assigned to the training center in Munster, before Panzergrenadierbataillon 33 in Neustadt am Rübenberge became the first operational battalion equipped with the vehicle. Fielding later expanded notably to Panzergrenadierlehrbataillon 92 in Munster, as well as Panzergrenadierbataillone 112 in Regen and 122 in Oberviechtach. The Puma has since progressively replaced the Marder, which has served with the German Army for more than half a century.

Against this background, Hartpunkt reported on August 7, 2026, on remarks made by Rheinmetall Chief Executive Officer Armin Papperger during an analyst conference. According to the German publication, Rheinmetall no longer expects the next Puma contract to be concluded in 2026, but rather in 2027. Papperger reportedly also referred to around €2.5 billion in revenue for Rheinmetall linked to the future acquisition. No precise number of vehicles was indicated in the remarks attributed to him, meaning that the size of the third batch remains to be determined.

Existing firm orders provide a clearer indication of the scale of the program. In May 2023, the BAAINBw ordered 50 additional Puma vehicles in the S1 configuration for approximately €1.087 billion, with deliveries planned between December 2025 and early 2027. In December 2025, Berlin placed another order for 200 vehicles with Projekt System & Management, the joint venture between Rheinmetall and KNDS Deutschland. The contract is valued at around €4.2 billion, divided equally between the two companies, with first deliveries expected from mid-2028. It also includes additional protection modules and their storage containers.

The Bundeswehr is simultaneously carrying out a broad modernization of the existing fleet. Between 2023 and 2024, the BAAINBw awarded industry contracts to upgrade 297 Puma vehicles already in service to the S1 standard, with completion planned by 2029. The modernization includes high-resolution camera systems for day and night operation, integration of the MELLS anti-tank missile system, and new digital radio equipment. Rheinmetall and KNDS are also planning a further S2 standard intended to address obsolescence and introduce additional capabilities, including counter-drone functions.

The Puma is operated by a three-person crew consisting of a commander, gunner, and driver, and carries six Panzergrenadiers in the rear compartment. Its remotely operated turret is fitted with the Rheinmetall MK30-2/ABM 30 mm automatic cannon, providing direct fire against infantry positions, lightly armored vehicles, and selected aerial targets. Programmable airburst ammunition allows the weapon to engage personnel behind partial cover, while the stabilized fire control architecture permits firing on the move. Depending on the protection configuration, combat weight can reach approximately 43 tonnes.

Mobility is provided by an MTU diesel powerpack developing around 800 kW, or approximately 1,088 horsepower, giving the vehicle a high power-to-weight ratio despite its protection level. Its modular armor architecture allows protection to be adapted to mission requirements and transport constraints. The vehicle also incorporates advanced day and thermal observation systems for the commander and gunner, a laser rangefinder, and digital communications designed to connect the platform to German command and control networks.

These developments directly support the operational concept of the Panzergrenadiers. The Puma is intended to maneuver alongside Leopard 2 main battle tanks, transport infantry under armor, and provide immediate fire support after dismounting. The 30 mm cannon covers lightly protected targets and hostile positions, while MELLS provides an engagement option against tanks and other heavily armored vehicles. Digital communications also support the exchange of tactical information between vehicles and dismounted troops. This combination remains dependent on technical availability, ammunition stocks, spare parts, and the number of trained crews.

The prospect of a third batch also comes in a German budgetary environment that differs markedly from the one that shaped the Puma’s initial deliveries. The draft federal budget for 2027 allocates €109.7 billion to the German Ministry of Defence, in addition to the remaining resources of the Bundeswehr special fund. Germany is seeking to rebuild the mechanized depth required to deploy larger and more sustainable armored formations on NATO’s eastern flank while maintaining the capabilities needed for national defense. A fleet gradually approaching 1,000 Puma vehicles would give the Bundeswehr greater capacity to generate Panzergrenadier units alongside Leopard 2 formations. It would also help sustain German production lines and industrial expertise in land systems, at a time when European states are seeking the industrial capacity required for prolonged deterrence and a potential high-intensity conflict.

Written By Erwan Halna du Fretay - Defense Analyst, Army Recognition Group
Erwan Halna du Fretay holds a Master’s degree in International Relations and has experience studying conflicts and global arms transfers. His research interests lie in Security and strategic studies, particularly the dynamics of the defense industry, the evolution of military technologies, and the strategic transformation of armed forces.