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The German Bundeswehr (Armed Forces) has awarded Rheinmetall a $341 million (€330 million) contract to deliver 568 military logistics vehicles, consisting of 349 Unprotected Transport Vehicles (UTF) trucks and 219 trucks equipped with a swap-body system.

The total value of these contracts exceeds €330 million gross and the delivery of these systems will be completed in 2026. According to the Rheinmetall statement, the swap-body trucks will be delivered to the German Army in November 2025, while the UTF-trucks are expected to be delivered in 2026.

The UTF trucks will be provided in 5-ton and 15-ton configurations, and 121 out of 219 swap-body systems trucks will feature protected driver cabs.

The UTF vehicles fall under a framework agreement established in July 2024, marking Rheinmetall’s largest order ever in logistical vehicles, valued at up to €3.5 billion gross for up to 6,500 trucks. This agreement grants the Bundeswehr flexibility to procure additional quantities of UTF 5-ton and 15-ton trucks, as well as introducing a new 3.5-ton 4×4 model that shares significant commonality with the existing UTF family.

In 2024, Rheinmetall achieved a milestone by delivering 2,015 logistics vehicles, strengthening the Bundeswehr’s logistical capabilities and advancing its fleet modernization efforts.

The vehicles delivered in 2024 included1,715 swap-body systems, 250 unprotected transport vehicles, and 50 semi-trailer units, ordered under existing framework agreements between with the Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology, and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) and Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles GmbH.

According to the Rheinmetall statement, “The large quantity and rapid delivery impressively demonstrate the new era of the Bundeswehr’s procurement, underlining the importance of Rheinmetall as a reliable partner for the armed forces.”

Since its introduction in 2017, the UTF family has played a vital role in enhancing the operational effectiveness of Bundeswehr logistics. Commissioned in July 2017, the UTF program is regarded as a flagship for its use of flexible, high-volume framework contracts. Over 6,000 HX vehicles, including swap-body systems and 70-ton semi-trailers, have been delivered to the Bundeswehr since then. More than 75% of the added value for these vehicles is generated in Germany.

Based on Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles’ robust HX family, the UTF and swap-body systems are purpose-built for military applications, offering exceptional mobility even in challenging terrain. The global prevalence of HX vehicles ensures logistical and operational interoperability during multinational missions.

Besides Germany, HX-family vehicles are utilized by several countries including the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, Austria, Hungary, Singapore, Slovenia, Denmark, and Ukraine. With over 20,000 HX vehicles in service worldwide, the latest order reflects the high level of trust and proven performance of this vehicle family.

Key Features of HX series vehicles

The Rheinmetall HX series comprises a versatile range of military trucks engineered for high mobility and reliability across diverse terrains. Designed specifically for military applications, these vehicles offer exceptional off-road capabilities and adaptability to various operational needs.

Robust Design: The HX series is built on a low-torsion ladder frame derived from MAN’s civilian TG series, providing a sturdy foundation for heavy off-road use.

Modularity: Offering configurations from 4×4 to 10×10, the HX series ensures high levels of commonality, reducing lifecycle costs and simplifying maintenance and training.

Protection Options: The vehicles can be equipped with modular armor cabins (MAC) or integrated armor cabins (IAC) to provide varying levels of protection against ballistic threats, mines, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

Advanced Mobility: Equipped with powerful MAN engines and capable suspension systems, the HX trucks deliver excellent mobility, even in challenging terrains.

Digital Interface Architecture: The latest HX3 generation incorporates a digital interface architecture, allowing for flexible applications and future performance enhancements