Munich-based defense electronics firm Hensoldt has secured a major contract worth several hundred million euros from General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) to outfit Germany’s new Luchs 2 reconnaissance vehicles. The long-term agreement, which runs through 2032, covers early development units as well as two full production batches. The first tranche includes 274 vehicles, with options for additional platforms to be added in later phases.
The contract provides not only mission systems but also spare parts, documentation, crew training, and extensive support services to sustain the fleet over the coming decade. GDELS was awarded the primary 3-billion-euro program in October to deliver the Luchs 2 vehicles to the German Armed Forces, with fielding scheduled between 2029 and 2032. The program aims to modernize Germany’s battlefield reconnaissance capabilities with a highly networked, sensor-rich platform.
At the center of Hensoldt’s contribution is the Ceretron mission system, a next-generation data fusion suite that integrates optical sensors, thermal imaging, and optional short-wave infrared cameras into a unified operational picture. Leveraging AI-enhanced image processing, Ceretron can automatically detect, classify, and track people, vehicles, and other targets, providing continuous situational awareness to both onboard crews and command elements.
Ceretron is further enhanced by integration with Hensoldt’s BAA IV long-range observation system, enabling detection across all weather conditions, and the SETAS “see-through armor” technology, which offers 360-degree day-night visibility from within the protected cabin. The system can also be connected to radio, laser, and acoustic sensors to extend threat detection and tracking capabilities. Additionally, Ceretron can link with Hensoldt’s MDOcore software suite, enabling seamless data sharing across land, air, maritime, cyber, and space domains for more synchronized multi-domain operations.
