Marder drivers to gain night vision upgrade
Rheinmetall is continuing to support German MoD efforts to extend the service life of the workhorse Marder IFV, with a new €24 million ($28.4 million) contract to supply more than 170 Spectus II driver night observation devices.
The deal also includes logistical support, training and other services. Deliveries are due to begin in late 2021 with completion by the end of 2022, Rheinmetall announced on 20 October.
Spectus II includes a residual light amplifier camera, thermal imaging device and rear-view camera.
In response to an urgent operational requirement for the ISAF mission in Afghanistan, Rheinmetall previously integrated the Spectus I system into the Marder 1 A5A1 fleet; and Rheinmetall was selected in December 2019 to extend the service life of 71 vehicles in a contract worth approximately €110 million.
Even more work for Rheinmetall may follow, after the budget committee of the German parliament on 7 October 2020 approved procurement of a thermal imaging aiming device for the Marder gunner and commander.
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
DSEI 2025: Controp Discusses AI-Enabled Multi-Domain Surveillance Solutions
At DSEI 2025, Controp representatives outline how artificial intelligence is being integrated with electro-optical payloads to improve decision-making and operational efficiency across land, air, and maritime domains.
-
SCD highlights advances in infrared imaging for defence operations
Infrared imaging manufacturer SCD outlines its approach to enhancing visibility for defence forces operating in complex environments.
-
DSEI 2025: Avon Protection Focuses on Integrated Respiratory and Ocular Systems for Defence
At DSEI 2025, Avon Protection outlines its latest developments in integrated headgear and respiratory protection systems designed for military and specialist users.
-
DSEI 2025: Still no order from British Army or Germany for RCH-155 Boxers
The first customer for the RCH-155 artillery system on the Boxer platform is Ukraine, which has already started to take delivery of the first of 54 systems from KNDS Deutschland. There is still no contract from Germany or the UK, while Hanwha continues to say it can supply its K9 system at short notice.