Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Germany’s €20 Billion Military Radio Overhaul Falters as Pistorius Draws Cross‑Party Criticism

The ministry is seeking €156.7 million in external support after slippage of key software fixes to March 2026.

Overview

  • Lawmakers were told only eight vehicle types have received usage approval so far, with integration across roughly 16,000 vehicles proving far slower than planned.
  • Technicians need around 400 hours to fit a single Leopard 2, and troops report software defects such as three‑second voice delays and digital messages arriving after 10 to 20 minutes.
  • A crucial software update is now expected in March 2026, prompting the Bundeswehr to plan a temporary mixed operation that keeps analogue sets in service.
  • Internal documents warn that serial retrofitting from January 2026 is questionable and that the Division 2025 will likely not be fully retrofitted before the end of 2027.
  • The ministry seeks a BWI‑led support contract worth about €156.7 million involving Capgemini, PwC and msg systems, drawing scrutiny over costs and day rates said to exceed €1,200.