How Hensoldt announced a few days ago, the company has been awarded a contract to modernize the sensor systems of a total of 90 Fennek vehicles of the German Armed Forces received. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in early 2026 and the order value is in the mid double-digit million euro range.
As part of the project, 30 Fennek scout vehicles will be upgraded from the now obsolete observation and reconnaissance equipment (BAA) I to BAA III. In addition, 50 Joint Fire Support Team (JFST) Fennek vehicles will be upgraded from BAA II to BAA III. Ten further BAA III sets will serve as a reserve during the upgrade and will subsequently be available as spare parts. A further two BAA III sets will be delivered to the client KNDS Germany for integration and verification. The order therefore comprises 92 BAA-III sets. The BAA-III sensor package marks “a technological leap forward for the Bundeswehr’s reconnaissance systems”, according to a recent Hensoldt press release. It integrates a laser target marker, which enables precise target illumination for the use of precision weapons, as well as a laser target illuminator. The new dual-band HDTV camera “Red Kite” offers improved reconnaissance capabilities in the visible (VIS) and short-wave infrared (SWIR) range, which ensures optimal target recognition both day and night and enables the observation of laser activities. In addition, the modern control and display unit facilitates handling under operational conditions. https://militaeraktuell.at/bundesheer-brueckenbau-in-annaberg-lungoetz/ Tanya Altmann, Head of the Optronics & Land Solutions Division at Hensoldt, emphasizes the importance of the modernization: “By upgrading the Fennek vehicles to the BAA-III sensor package, we are setting a new standard in military reconnaissance. The integrated, high-precision systems offer the user superior sensor performance and make the decisive difference in complex operational scenarios. As a technology partner, we are proud to contribute to the operational capability of our armed forces with state-of-the-art optoelectronics.” The BAA III upgrade not only brings operational added value through improved target acquisition and tracking, but is also equipped for future requirements as it is prepared for the integration of additional digital interfaces.
Here for more Hensoldt news and here to further reports on the Bundeswehr.
