Germany’s parliamentary budget committee has approved a funding package of 25 million euros aimed at modernizing its indirect fire support capabilities, particularly focusing on the “Common Armored Vehicle System” (CAVS) program, according to a local source. This initiative will initiate the development of prototype turreted mortar systems that will be integrated onto the CAVS 6×6 platform.

A central element of this initiative is the incorporation of the NEMO mortar system, which is engineered to provide rapid, mobile, and precise fire support for German infantry and mechanized units. The system is intended to replace the outdated 120mm mortars currently utilized by Jäger units in high-mobility operations. The contract has been awarded to the Finnish defense company Patria, with additional contributions from the German electronics firm ESG.

The plan outlines a potential investment of up to 50 million euros to modify the system to align with Bundeswehr standards, which includes ensuring roadworthiness and integrating advanced features such as night-fighting technology, an MG5 machine gun, and ROSY smoke grenade launchers. Furthermore, the NEMO mortar will be connected to the ADLER fire control network to facilitate effective battlefield coordination with NATO allies.

In the realm of military technology, the 120mm recoilless gun known as the NEw MOrtar, or NEMO, is recognized as one of the most innovative and effective systems for infantry support. Developed by the Finnish company Patria, which is known for its high-quality defense solutions, NEMO is a modular system that can be mounted on various platforms, offering exceptional versatility and adaptability for diverse operational requirements.

NEMO is engineered primarily for indirect fire but also features a direct fire mode, distinguishing it from traditional mortars. Its versatility allows for installation on armored personnel carriers, light vehicles, or naval vessels, thereby enhancing its tactical deployment options. The system prioritizes mobility, precision, and the safety of personnel, making it a favored choice among contemporary military forces.

NEMO is equipped with an automated loading system that enables a rapid firing rate of up to 10 rounds per minute. This capability is vital in fast-paced combat scenarios, where the ability to fire quickly can influence the success of an operation. The system incorporates a computerized aiming mechanism, providing accuracy at ranges of up to 10 kilometers, and under optimal conditions, extending to 13 kilometers. This precision is facilitated by the integration of GPS, inertial navigation, and laser guidance, allowing for real-time adjustments during operations.

The ammunition options for NEMO are varied, including high-explosive, illumination, and smoke rounds, which equip operators to handle a range of combat situations effectively. High-explosive rounds are tailored for targeting personnel and light armored vehicles, while illumination and smoke rounds serve to obscure movements or enhance operational advantages during nighttime engagements. The design of these munitions ensures an impact radius of up to 18 meters from the detonation point, maximizing their effectiveness.

NEMO is designed with crew safety in mind, featuring automated loading systems that significantly reduce personnel exposure to hazards during firing operations. The elimination of muzzle loading serves as an additional safety precaution, minimizing the risk of accidents. This system is engineered to operate effectively in a variety of climatic conditions, ensuring reliability even in the most challenging environments.

On an international scale, NEMO has garnered interest from numerous military forces around the globe. For instance, Estonia is considering the integration of this system into its military, highlighting its proven effectiveness and dependability. In trials conducted across different nations, NEMO has shown its capability to transform modern battlefield dynamics, providing rapid, precise, and safe support solutions.

In terms of the platform, the CAVS [Common Armored Vehicle System] 6×6 represents a notable evolution in military vehicle design, created by Patria, a Finnish defense manufacturer. This platform is intended to deliver versatility, protection, and mobility for contemporary armed forces, serving as a foundation for various configurations tailored to meet a range of operational needs.

The CAVS 6×6 is constructed on a modular framework, enabling a broad spectrum of configurations without significant alterations to the fundamental vehicle design. This modularity allows the vehicle to be customized for various roles, including troop transport, command and control, medical evacuation, reconnaissance, and as a platform for different weapon systems such as mortars, machine guns, or anti-tank guided missiles.

The CAVS 6×6 is characterized by its substantial physical dimensions, typically measuring approximately 7.5 meters in length, 2.6 meters in width, and around 2.5 meters in height, depending on the equipment installed. With a combat weight of up to 24 tons, it strikes a favorable balance between mobility and protection. The vehicle is designed to carry a significant payload, accommodating up to 8.5 tons of equipment or personnel, which includes seating for 11 passengers in addition to the driver.

A standout feature of the CAVS 6×6 is its robust protection system. The vehicle is equipped with a fully armored hull that safeguards against small arms fire, shrapnel from artillery shells, and mine threats. For enhanced defense, additional armor kits can be integrated, including composite and reactive armor modules to counter advanced threats such as anti-tank missiles.

The vehicle’s configuration places the driver and commander at the front, with the engine compartment strategically located to maximize space and safety. The troop compartment is accessible through rear or side doors, facilitating efficient entry and exit.

Mobility is a significant advantage of the CAVS 6×6, featuring an all-wheel drive system and hydraulic power steering that enable it to traverse difficult terrains. Certain variants are also designed with amphibious capabilities for water crossings. The suspension system is engineered to provide stability and comfort, essential for operations in challenging environments or during extended missions.

In terms of versatility, the CAVS 6×6 can be outfitted with various mission-specific modules. It can be equipped with the Patria NEMO 120mm turreted mortar for indirect fire support or fitted with remote weapon stations for direct engagement.

Command variants are equipped with sophisticated communication and control systems, improving battlefield management. Medical configurations are designed for rapid and efficient evacuation in combat scenarios, providing space for stretchers and medical personnel.

The platform’s flexibility has facilitated its adoption by various nations participating in the CAVS program, which originally included Finland and Latvia, and later expanded to include Sweden and Germany. Each country has the ability to customize the vehicle to meet its specific requirements, ensuring that the vehicles are not only compatible with one another but also tailored to address the distinct challenges faced in their military operations.

The effectiveness of the CAVS 6×6 is further highlighted by its production and deployment schedules. With manufacturing facilities established in several countries, notably a major one in Latvia, the platform exemplifies the viability of multinational defense partnerships, which help to lower costs and enhance supply chain reliability. The vehicle’s design facilitates straightforward maintenance and upgrades, significantly prolonging its operational lifespan.

The incorporation of the NEMO 120mm mortar system onto the CAVS 6×6 platform provides a strategic and tactical boost for the German Army, delivering numerous benefits in contemporary combat situations. This integration results in a highly mobile, adaptable, and efficient indirect fire support system that aligns with modern military strategies focused on rapid deployment, accuracy, and protection.

Primarily, the mobility of the CAVS 6×6 greatly enhances the operational reach and agility of the NEMO mortar. The all-wheel drive 6×6 configuration enables quick movement across diverse terrains, including off-road environments that may hinder less mobile systems. This enhanced mobility allows German forces to position indirect fire support closer to the front lines or swiftly adjust their location in response to enemy actions, delivering agile fire support without the need for extensive logistical preparations or lengthy setup times.

The turreted configuration of the NEMO on the CAVS 6×6 provides a full 360-degree firing capability, which is a significant improvement over conventional mortar systems that typically need to reposition to target different directions. This feature minimizes the time the vehicle is exposed to enemy counter-battery fire, as it can engage targets from any angle without relocating, thus improving its survivability in combat environments. Additionally, the option to fire in both direct and indirect modes enhances its versatility, enabling quick responses to enemy forces at close range when required.

Another significant advantage is the level of protection offered. The CAVS 6×6 is designed with robust ballistic and mine protection, shielding the crew from small arms fire, shrapnel, and explosive blasts. This is particularly vital for missions where the mortar may be positioned near frontline operations or in areas with high IED risks. The protection can be further augmented with optional armor kits, ensuring the platform remains operational in contested zones long enough to effectively deliver its firepower.

The automated loading mechanism of the NEMO not only boosts the firing rate but also reduces crew exposure during combat. This system enables a sustained firing rate of up to 10 rounds per minute, facilitating rapid suppression of enemy positions or providing support to ground forces. The automation alleviates both the physical and mental demands on the crew, allowing them to concentrate more on target acquisition, fire control, and maintaining situational awareness.

Combining NEMO with CAVS 6×6 presents logistical advantages by streamlining supply chain and maintenance needs. The two systems can utilize shared components and support infrastructure, which minimizes logistical demands and reduces costs associated with managing multiple platforms. This integration also enhances training efficiency, allowing personnel to become proficient with a single platform that fulfills various roles, including infantry transport and fire support.

From a strategic perspective, incorporating this system into the German Army’s capabilities bolsters its force projection, especially in NATO collective defense operations and multinational peacekeeping missions. The integration provides a versatile asset that can be configured for different mission types, ranging from urban combat to open-field engagements, thereby equipping the German military with a resource that can adapt to the dynamic challenges of contemporary warfare.

Operationally, this combination enables the execution of shoot-and-scoot tactics, allowing the mortar to strike targets and swiftly reposition to evade enemy counterattacks. This capability is particularly advantageous in scenarios where enemy counter-battery systems are active, offering a tactical benefit by minimizing exposure time.

In summary, the integration of the NEMO mortar with the CAVS 6×6 platform significantly enhances the German Army’s operational capabilities by improving mobility, protection, firepower, and flexibility. This combination not only supports conventional infantry missions but also meets the challenges posed by asymmetric warfare, urban operations, and rapid deployment needs, serving as a crucial force multiplier within the Bundeswehr.