First pre-series vehicle revealed ahead of schedule
Flensburg Technology Systems, a joint venture between German company Flensburger Fahrzeugbau Gesellschaft and Israel Aerospace Industries, together with Germany’s Special Forces Command, has unveiled the new TAHR light airborne combat vehicle.
The first pre-series vehicle was presented only one year after FTS and the German authorities signed a framework agreement. According to the companies, the early unveiling reflects the rapid, results-oriented cooperation between the German-Israeli manufacturer and the end user, Germany’s special forces.
Open architecture designed for special operations
The TAHR features an open and integrated design that gives operators a clear view of the area surrounding the vehicle. Its architecture also allows the integration of various weapon systems according to operational requirements.
The vehicle is available in two configurations:
- a light airborne combat vehicle;
- a light airborne support vehicle.
Both variants are based on a highly mobile, all-terrain platform that has already been combat-proven and is in service. The platform was rapidly adapted to meet the mission-specific requirements of the KSK.
Two vehicles can be carried by a Chinook helicopter
Under the framework agreement signed in 2025 between Germany’s Federal Office for Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support and FTS, Germany is expected to receive 200 TAHR vehicles. No delivery schedule has been disclosed.
According to the manufacturer, two TAHR vehicles can be transported at the same time by a heavy Chinook helicopter. After landing and exiting the aircraft, the vehicles can reach full combat readiness within a very short period — a key requirement for KSK operations.
Brigadier General Andreas Kühne, commander of Germany’s special forces, said the vehicle could also be deployed by air drop. He noted that KSK missions are conducted worldwide and under highly diverse conditions, requiring transport options adapted to the situation, mission and terrain.
Berlin and Jerusalem deepen defence cooperation
The unveiling of the TAHR marks another step in Germany and Israel’s expanding industrial and military cooperation. IAI CEO Guy Bar Lev described Germany as a strategic partner in the long-term development of joint defence capabilities.
Cooperation between the two countries covers several areas, including air, maritime and land systems. The partnership is based on combining the technology, expertise and industrial capabilities of companies from both countries.
IAI has expressed its intention to further deepen the relationship and jointly develop solutions to address emerging security challenges.
Germany tests Israeli missiles and acquires air-defence systems
Earlier this month, the German Navy completed a successful test of IAI’s Lora naval missile. Germany is also acquiring Israel’s Arrow air-defence system under a deal estimated at 6.5 billion dollars.
Other Israeli defence companies are also expanding their presence in Germany. Rafael Advanced Defense Systems recently signed an agreement in Lower Saxony to transform the former Volkswagen site in Osnabrück into a production centre for air-defence systems.
Rafael has also integrated its EuroTrophy active protection system onto Germany’s Leopard tanks. Meanwhile, Israeli company Elbit Systems is working with Diehl Defense to promote the SkyStriker loitering munition in Germany.
Defence trade flows in both directions
Defence cooperation between Germany and Israel is not one-sided. Israel has acquired its Dolphin-class submarines and Sa’ar 6 corvettes from German naval shipyards.
Through the TAHR project, Germany and Israel are further strengthening their partnership in military vehicles, weapon systems and technologies designed for special operations.
