Germany Moves to Procure Israeli PULS Rocket Artillery Systems to Replace MARS II Units Sent to Ukraine.

According to information published by the German defense website Hartpunkt on November 27, 2024, the German Ministry of Defense has officially launched a procurement process for the PULS (Precise and Universal Launching System) as part of the Bundeswehr's  (German army) Future Long-Range Indirect Fire System program.
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The PULS Rocket Artillery System, selected by both the Dutch and German armies, provides advanced long-range precision firepower, capable of launching rockets up to 300 km. (Picture source: Defensie Fotografie Martin Bos)

This acquisition aims to replace the five MARS II Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) platforms that were recently donated to Ukraine as part of Germany's military aid package. The PULS system, developed by Israeli defense contractor Elbit Systems, promises to enhance Germany's missile artillery capabilities with a new generation of rocket launchers capable of delivering a wide range of precision-guided munitions.

The decision to acquire PULS is a strategic move to replace the older MARS II system, which has been in service with the Bundeswehr for decades. The MARS II, a European version of the American M270 MLRS, is being phased out as part of a broader modernization effort within Germany’s armed forces. The Euro-PULS, a variant of the original Israeli system, will be tailored specifically to meet the needs of the German Army. The system promises to provide flexible and precise fire support over extended ranges, addressing the growing demand for more advanced, multi-role artillery systems. In particular, the new Euro-PULS system will be integrated into the German military’s broader defense infrastructure in collaboration with Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW), a German defense manufacturer known for its expertise in armored vehicles and artillery​.

The PULS system stands out for its versatility and precision. It can launch various rockets, including the Accular 122mm and 160mm rockets, with ranges of up to 35 km and 40 km, respectively. Additionally, it can fire the EXTRA rocket, which has a range of 150 km, and the Predator Hawk rocket, which can strike targets up to 300 km away. This wide range of munitions ensures that the system can be used for various mission types, from close support to long-range precision strikes against high-value targets. The PULS system also features a fully automated loading and firing system, reducing crew requirements and increasing the speed at which the system can operate in dynamic battlefield environments. Mounted on a robust 8x8 wheeled chassis, the PULS is highly mobile, ensuring that it can be deployed quickly across different terrains and in challenging operational conditions.

The procurement of the Euro-PULS is part of a broader effort to replace the MARS II systems that were sent to Ukraine in 2023 as part of Germany’s support for Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression. The handover of these five MARS II units created a gap in Germany’s own artillery capabilities, which the new PULS systems will now address. The procurement process is expected to unfold over several years, with the first deliveries anticipated after a period of testing and integration. The system will be built in close collaboration with Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and Elbit Systems, with the German Army’s operational requirements taken into account throughout the development process. As Germany continues to modernize its artillery fleet, the PULS will form an essential part of its future long-range fire support capabilities, aligning with similar procurement efforts by other NATO allies, including the Netherlands, Norway, and Spain, all of which are investing in the system to bolster their own defense postures​.

Germany’s investment in the PULS system also reflects a broader shift in European defense strategy, where nations are increasingly seeking to modernize and enhance their military capabilities in response to regional security threats. The ability of the PULS to deliver precision strikes over extended distances makes it an important tool for deterrence and rapid-response operations. The procurement process highlights Germany’s commitment to strengthening NATO’s defense capabilities and enhancing its own readiness in a rapidly evolving security environment. The acquisition of PULS is a direct response to both the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the increasing threat posed by Russia, ensuring that Germany remains a key player in maintaining peace and stability in Europe.

As the procurement process moves forward, the collaboration between Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and Elbit Systems will be critical in adapting the Euro-PULS to meet Germany’s specific needs. The integration of this advanced artillery system will enhance the Bundeswehr’s ability to conduct long-range precision strikes, providing the German Army with a powerful, flexible, and highly capable tool for modern warfare. The replacement of the MARS II units with the PULS system marks a significant step in Germany’s defense modernization efforts, aligning with broader European initiatives to improve interoperability and response capabilities within NATO and the EU. This development is expected to reinforce Germany's strategic position in European defense and contribute to the overall security architecture of the region.