First pre-series vehicle presented ahead of schedule
Flensburg Technology Systems (FTS), a joint venture established by Germany’s Flensburger Fahrzeugbau Gesellschaft (FFG) and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), has unveiled a new light combat vehicle alongside Germany’s Special Forces Command, known as the KSK.
Named TAHR, the vehicle was presented only one year after the signing of a framework agreement between the manufacturer and German defense authorities. The unveiling of the first pre-series vehicle took place ahead of schedule, highlighting the accelerated cooperation between the German-Israeli industrial partnership and the vehicle’s end user.
Open architecture designed for special operations
The TAHR features an open and integrated design that gives personnel a clear view of the surrounding area from inside the vehicle. Its architecture also allows the integration of various weapon systems, depending on the requirements of each mission.
FTS said the platform will be available in two configurations: a light airborne combat vehicle and a light airborne support vehicle. Both variants are based on a highly mobile, all-terrain platform that has already been combat-proven and is currently in service.
The platform was rapidly adapted to meet the KSK’s specific operational requirements, including the need to integrate different types of weapons and mission equipment.
Germany plans to acquire 200 vehicles
Under a framework agreement signed in 2025 between the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support and FTS, Germany is expected to receive 200 TAHR vehicles. The delivery schedule has not been disclosed.
The vehicle’s dimensions allow two units to be transported aboard a Chinook heavy-lift helicopter. Once the aircraft has landed and the vehicles have been unloaded, they can reach full operational readiness within a very short period — a key requirement for special forces missions.
Airborne deployment expands operational flexibility
Brigadier General Andreas Kühne, commander of the KSK, said the TAHR can also be deployed by air drop, giving German special forces another option for reaching difficult or heavily contested areas.
According to Kühne, the KSK must be capable of conducting missions worldwide and under a wide range of conditions. To achieve that goal, the force requires not only high mobility but also several transport options tailored to the operational situation, mission objectives and terrain.
Strategic defense ties between Berlin and Jerusalem deepen
Cooperation spans land, air and naval systems
The unveiling of the TAHR marks another step in the expanding defense and industrial relationship between Germany and Israel.
IAI Chief Executive Officer Guy Bar Lev described Germany as a strategic partner in the long-term development of joint defense capabilities. Cooperation between the two countries covers multiple sectors, including air, maritime and land systems, combining technological expertise and industrial capacity on both sides.
The Israeli company said it intends to further strengthen the partnership and jointly develop solutions to address emerging security challenges.
Germany expands its purchases of Israeli systems
Germany recently completed a successful test of IAI’s naval Lora missile as part of a program for the German Navy. Berlin is also acquiring Israel’s Arrow air defense system under a deal valued at approximately $6.5 billion.
Other major Israeli defense companies are also expanding their presence in Germany. Rafael Advanced Defense Systems has reached an agreement in Lower Saxony to transform the former Volkswagen facility in Osnabrück into a production center for air defense systems.
Rafael has also integrated its EuroTrophy active protection system onto Germany’s Leopard tanks. Meanwhile, Elbit Systems is working with Diehl Defense to promote the SkyStriker loitering munition in the German market.
Defense cooperation also benefits Israel
The flow of military equipment is not one-way. Israel has strengthened its naval capabilities through the acquisition of Dolphin-class submarines and Sa’ar 6 corvettes built by German shipyards.
Tactical communications tailored to NATO requirements
Technological sovereignty offers battlefield advantages
Secure and adaptable communications are essential for coordinating forces during modern military operations. Developing and manufacturing tactical communication systems locally can provide operational advantages while reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.
Rafael’s approach emphasizes technology transfer, the development of local engineering expertise and the creation of systems compatible with the command, control, communications, computers, intelligence and surveillance requirements of NATO partners.
