Diehl Defence received an order of more than 600 additional guided missiles of the type MELLS (lightweight, multi-role guided missile system) for the Bundeswehr Infantry.
The high-performance effectors for precise engagement of armored ground and infrastructure targets are scheduled to be delivered to EuroSpike GmbH in 2024, a joint venture between Diehl, Rheinmetall and Rafael and in charge of program management and marketing in Europe.
Diehl Defence produces the MELLS guidance and control assemblies in Germany, including the high-resolution dual-mode seeker head as well as the warhead and carries out the final integration. The missiles delivered from its integration center located in the Saarland, are not only used with a portable command and launch unit in dismounted operation but also as armament of the armored infantry combat vehicles Marder and Puma as well as of the Bundeswehr gun carrier Wiesel.
During operation, soldiers benefit from a sophisticated seeker technology and the special warhead architecture of the light, compact effector. The free choice between daylight and night vision mode offers a reliable and stable target tracking even in case of changing visibility conditions.
Until the year 2024, the total volume of the missile procured by the purchasing authority will increase to more than 4,600 items, thanks to the latest order. It is part of a basic agreement on the procurement of missiles over the next ten years.
Thus, the supply of the German Army with one of the most modern antitank armaments is also safeguarded in the future.