HENSOLDT To Upgrade German Fennek Vehicles With New Sensors

Sensor specialist HENSOLDT has been awarded the contract to modernise the sensor technology of a total of 90 Fennek vehicles. As part of the project, 30 Fennek scout vehicles will be upgraded from the now obsolete BAA I observation and reconnaissance equipment to BAA III. In addition, 50 Fennek Joint Fire Support Team (JFST) vehicles will be upgraded from BAA II to BAA III. Ten additional BAA III sets will serve as a recirculating reserve during the upgrade and will subsequently be available as spare parts. Another two BAA III sets will be delivered to the customer KNDS Deutschland for integration and verification management. The order itself comprises 92 BAA III sets. The order value is in the mid double-digit million range.

The integration work is scheduled to be completed in a short time frame to ensure that the Fennek is operationally ready for use by the Bundeswehr. Deliveries will begin as early as the first quarter of 2026. This modernisation is part of a comprehensive programme that is being implemented in close cooperation with the Federal Office for Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw). As a technology partner, HENSOLDT is responsible for the delivery and integration of the new sensor packages.

The BAA III sensor package marks a technological leap forward for the Bundeswehr's reconnaissance systems. It integrates a laser target designator, which enables precise target illumination for the use of precision weapons, as well as a laser pointer/illuminator. The new dual-band HDTV camera ‘Red Kite’ offers improved reconnaissance capabilities in the visible (VIS) and short-wave infrared range (SWIR), which ensures optimal target detection both day and night and enables observation of laser activities. In addition, the modern operating and display unit improves ergonomics and makes it easier to use under operational conditions.

To read more, please visit the HENSOLDT website.