Germany Orders More 120mm Tank Rounds

Germany’s armed forces (Bundeswehr) have placed another order with Rheinmetall for 120mm tank ammunition.

According to a statement from Rheinmetall, the new order falls under the extended framework agreement signed in July 2023. “The new order is worth several hundred million euros,” the company said, though it did not disclose the exact value or quantities.

The German Armed Forces are expected to receive both combat and training ammunition, specifically in the 120mm x 570 caliber used by the Leopard 2 main battle tank.

Rheinmetall confirmed the framework agreement remains active through the end of 2030 and allows for the procurement of “several hundred thousand combat and training cartridges of various types.”

This ammunition is fired from the 120mm smoothbore gun standard on the Leopard 2 tank, which is widely used not only by Germany but also by other European and NATO militaries.

In July 2023, the Bundeswehr expanded the existing framework deal, bringing the total value of the agreement to approximately €4 billion ($4.6 billion).

“This order underscores Rheinmetall’s role as a major supplier to the Bundeswehr in the field of 120 mm tank ammunition,” the company said.

The company also noted that the contract reflects the Bundeswehr’s current priorities: “It reflects the armed forces’ efforts to replenish their stocks and increase their ammunition stocks considering the current security situation.”

Rheinmetall supplies 120mm ammunition to a number of countries operating Leopard 2 tanks, including NATO members and European Union allies.