Rheinmetall to Deliver Over 100,000 Mortar Rounds to Spain.

On April 3, 2024, Rheinmetall announced that the Spanish government had placed an order for the supply of 104,000 mortar rounds. Valued in the upper tens of millions of euros, this order marks a significant step in Spain's efforts to strengthen its army's firepower. The contract, finalized in the first quarter of 2024, calls for the delivery of mortar rounds in three calibers: 60mm, 81mm, and 120mm, to be completed by the end of 2025.
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On 3 April 2024, Rheinmetall revealed that it had been awarded a contract by the Spanish government to supply 104,000 mortar shells. (Picture source: Rheinmetall)

On 3 April 2024, Rheinmetall revealed that it had been awarded a contract by the Spanish government to supply 104,000 mortar shells. Concluded in the early months of 2024, the contract stipulates that Rheinmetall will supply mortar ammunition in three different calibers - 60 mm, 81 mm, and 120 mm - with an obligation to deliver all of them by the end of 2025.

This agreement, the second of its kind, includes an option for two additional years. The mortar rounds, intended for use by infantry units, will meet a variety of operational needs with explosive, smoke, and illumination ammunition. The range of calibers ensures compatibility with different mortar systems, offering ranges from 2.59 km for the 60mm rounds to 8.25 km for the 120mm rounds. This versatility is crucial for engaging targets across a spectrum of battlefield scenarios, from challenging terrains to urban warfare environments.

Rheinmetall's mortar ammunition is known for its increased range, precision, and optimized impact effectiveness, attributes that significantly contribute to the effectiveness of ground forces in combat situations. This recent acquisition aligns with the Spanish Army's strategy to modernize and enhance its artillery capabilities, ensuring that its forces are equipped with state-of-the-art ammunition capable of meeting the demands of modern warfare.

The Spanish Army is implementing several ambitious initiatives to strengthen its capabilities and prepare for future challenges. A major project is the adoption of the "Horizon 2035" concept, aiming to modernize its ground forces with the creation of the "Brigade 2035". This brigade will integrate the latest technologies, including artificial intelligence and robotics, notably equipping soldiers with the new Piranha 8x8 vehicle in up to thirteen different configurations. This ambitious project seeks to adapt the Spanish Army to future threats by equipping soldiers with advanced digital tools while maintaining a connection with civilian populations in conflict zones.

Additionally, Spain committed to increasing its defense spending to 1.53% of its GDP by 2024, although this target is below the 2% stipulated by NATO at the 2014 summit. This increase represents a significant rise from the current defense budget, thus demonstrating Spain's commitment to strengthening its military capabilities despite anticipated budgetary challenges.

Moreover, the Spanish Army plans to modernize its Leopard 2E tanks, a key element in improving its firepower and protection on the ground. This modernization could include the integration of advanced protection and armament systems, thus meeting current and future operational needs.

Finally, the search for a new armored reconnaissance and combat vehicle to replace the current Centauros underscores the Spanish Army's ongoing effort to maintain its capabilities at the forefront of technology. Although a project to upgrade the Centauros was announced in 2021, the Spanish military staff is already exploring options for a potential successor, proving its ambition to remain at the cutting edge of lethal and reconnaissance military capabilities.

This order further solidifies Rheinmetall's position as a key player in the defense industry, particularly in the field of steep-fire systems. The company's expertise and innovation in ammunition manufacturing are demonstrated by its recent contract to supply the Spanish army with 155mm artillery ammunition, a deal worth over 200 million euros. These strategic acquisitions by the Spanish government from Rheinmetall not only strengthen the army's operational readiness but also reaffirm the strong partnership between Spain and one of the world's leading defense manufacturers.