Rheinmetall has received a follow-on order from the Bundeswehr for 56 additional HX81 Elefant 2 heavy-duty transporters under its existing framework agreement. Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles (RMMV) will deliver the vehicles during 2026 and 2027 under a contract valued at approximately €60.5 million (gross).
The original seven-year framework agreement covered the supply of up to 137 vehicles, with the Bundeswehr initially ordering 32 Elefant 2 transporters. Valued at €122 million (gross), the agreement included options for additional vehicles. In response to increased demand, it has now been extended to include a further 56 Elefant 2 transporters.
Designed for heavy-lift transport operations, the HX81 Elefant 2 is powered by a 680 hp eight-cylinder diesel engine, enabling a top speed of 89 km/h, four-wheel drive capability, and the ability to climb gradients of up to 60%. The vehicle has a technically permissible gross combination weight of 135 tonnes and features the same driver’s cab as the UTF family, along with a twin-winch system from Rotzler, each offering a 20-tonne pulling force.
The unarmoured Elefant 2 complements the Bundeswehr’s armoured Mammut heavy-lift transporter, also supplied by RMMV, strengthening the military’s capability to transport heavy combat vehicles. This capability is increasingly important as Germany continues to serve as a key logistical hub for NATO’s collective defence.
