Lynx combat vehicles are now manufactured in Ukraine: Rheinmetall implements a new project
8 November 14:52
German company Rheinmetall has started production of Lynx combat vehicles in Ukraine. This is reported by Komersant ukrainskyi with reference to BuildingTech.
Rheinmetall has launched its first production facility in Ukraine. According to Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger, the construction of the second plant is also nearing completion and is scheduled to start in the near future. This will allow localizing the production of armored vehicles and ammunition, which opens up new prospects for defense partnership between Ukraine and Germany.
Large-scale localization of production and the first delivery of Lynx armored personnel carriers
The new plants are expected to become important links in Rheinmetall’s production chain, providing a significant share of products for the Ukrainian armed forces. The company plans to make the first delivery of Lynx infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) by the end of the year and further expand its production capacity. The plans include an ammunition manufacturing plant and powder production, which will provide comprehensive support to the Ukrainian defense industry.
Versatility and reliability of the Lynx infantry fighting vehicle
The main development of Rheinmetall for intensive combat operations is the Lynx IFV, which has two modifications: KF31 and KF41. The KF31 model weighs up to 38 tons and is equipped with a 755 horsepower engine that can reach speeds of up to 65 km/h, while the more powerful KF41 version weighs 50 tons, has an 1140 horsepower engine and can reach speeds of up to 70 km/h.
A key aspect of the Lynx design is crew protection. The vehicle is equipped with steel armor with double hull reinforcement, which reduces the impact of explosions. Additional armor made of metal and ceramic components protects against armor-piercing shells of up to 25 mm caliber at a distance of 500 meters. The vehicle is capable of withstanding explosions of up to 10 kg of TNT, and the optional Active Protection System (APS) improves its stability in combat.
The Lynx design keeps the ammunition separate from the crew, reducing the risk of armor penetration. The interior space is designed to maximize crew comfort and ensure quick evacuation in case of damage.
The Lynx’s versatility is ensured by its modular architecture, which allows the vehicle to be adapted to various tasks, both combat and support. This makes it an optimal choice for armies, as such modularity simplifies logistics and maintenance, and minimizes the need to retrain personnel to perform new tactical tasks.
As reported, on May 5, Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger announced the supply of artillery ammunition to Ukraine, including 100-kilometer-range shells.
In March, Papperger said that Rheinmetall wanted to build at least four plants in Ukraine.
Rheinmetall’s plants in Ukraine are expected to produce shells, military equipment, gunpowder and anti-aircraft weapons.
