Rheinmetall to build Lynx OMFV test chassis
The Lynx KF41 blends unsurpassed protection with massive firepower and unbeatable mobility in a uniquely modular concept. (Photo: Rheinmetall)
Rheinmetall has received a build and export contract for a Lynx IFV test chassis from its factory in Queensland, Australia.
Rheinmetall Defence Australia, managing director, Gary Stewart said that the contract was the first of its kind and provided design and manufacturing export work both for Rheinmetall and its growing Australian Industry network.
The chassis is a test rig destined for Rheinmetall’s Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle (OMFV) campaign to showcase advanced automotive capabilities and features of mobility in the Lynx platform.
The Australian export opportunities for Rheinmetall are said to have increased with this contract and it will provide a flow on for the Australian partners who have contributed to the Lynx IFV.
While Rheinmetall has announced the export of the Lance Turret to Hungary, this will be the first vehicle export from Australia.
Rheinmetall’s concept for the OMFV programme is based on the Lynx KF41, the second member of its Lynx modular tracked IFV family.
The OMFV is the US Army’s fourth attempt to replace the M-2 Bradley, which has been in service since the early 1980s and is near the end of its useful life.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Land Warfare
-
Elbit bets on local content for US howitzer bid as it faces off against popular systems
The Israeli company hopes that producing its Sigma artillery system wholly in the US will help it win a key US Army contract, but it will be up against the popular CAESAR Mk II wheeled weapon and the K9 tracked.
-
Rheinmetall and KNDS tank tie-up narrows trans-European options
The French and German governments signed an agreement in June 2018 to cooperate on the development of a new main battle tank under the Main Ground Combat System programme but the effort has struggled. This new agreement may damage it further.
-
2025 land market review: British Army woes, European heavy armour and US MBT progress
The last year has seen several major procurements in the land market. Shephard’s Dr Peter Magill reviews the main trends and themes in land procurement of 2025.