Bundeswehr Commissions FLW 200 Upgrade: Enhancing Remote Weapon Stations with Airburst Capability

The German Bundeswehr has initiated a significant modernization effort by commissioning KNDS Deutschland to enhance the combat capabilities of its FLW 200 remote-controlled light weapon stations. This decision, formalized on June 26, 2025, and publicly disclosed via the European TED procurement platform, marks a strategic move to adapt existing systems to evolving battlefield requirements, particularly through the integration of programmable airburst munitions.

FLW 200. KNDS

The FLW 200 is a remotely operated weapon station mounted on various armored vehicles such as the GTK Boxer, Dingo 2, and Fuchs 1 A8. It allows for weapon operation from within the vehicle, thereby enhancing crew protection. The system is designed to accommodate a range of armaments, including 7.62 mm and 12.7 mm machine guns, as well as 40 mm automatic grenade launchers. The FLW 200+ variant further extends this capability by supporting a 20 mm Rh 202 automatic cannon, increasing its firepower and operational flexibility.

The current upgrade focuses on enabling the FLW 200 to utilize 40 x 53 mm airburst grenades. These munitions can be programmed to detonate at a specific point in space, dispersing shrapnel over a defined area. This feature is particularly effective against targets behind cover, offering a tactical advantage in complex combat scenarios. To support this functionality, the FLW 200 requires several modifications, including the integration of a programming unit for the airburst rounds and updates to its fire control software.

This enhancement aligns with broader trends in modern military technology, where precision and adaptability are increasingly prioritized. The ability to engage concealed or partially protected targets without direct line-of-sight fire represents a notable shift in infantry support tactics. Moreover, the modular nature of the FLW systems allows for such upgrades without necessitating complete system overhauls, thus preserving existing investments while extending operational relevance.

Looking ahead, there is speculation that the FLW 200 could be further developed to contribute to layered drone defense systems. This would involve equipping the station with additional sensors for drone detection and tracking, as well as integrating a tracker capable of calculating fire control solutions based on aerial target profiles. While such capabilities are not part of the current upgrade, they reflect a potential trajectory for future development, especially given the increasing prevalence of unmanned aerial threats in modern conflicts.

The Bundeswehr’s decision to pursue this upgrade also reflects a broader procurement strategy aimed at enhancing the survivability and effectiveness of its vehicle fleets. In recent years, the German military has expanded its inventory of remote weapon stations, including the FLW 100 and FLW 200 series, to improve the self-defense capabilities of both combat and support vehicles. These systems are valued for their ability to be operated under full armor and NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) protection, minimizing crew exposure during engagements.

The FLW 200’s design incorporates a stabilized mount, advanced optics, and a laser rangefinder, enabling accurate targeting under various conditions. Its compatibility with multiple weapon types and its integration into existing vehicle platforms make it a versatile component of the Bundeswehr’s armored capabilities. The system’s architecture also supports future upgrades, such as the addition of sniper detection systems, shot counters, and integration into command and simulation networks.

KNDS Deutschland, the manufacturer of the FLW series, has emphasized the continuity of system architecture across the FLW 100, 200, and 200+ variants. This standardization simplifies logistics, training, and maintenance, while also facilitating incremental capability enhancements. The FLW 200 Plus, for example, builds on the FLW 200 by incorporating the 20 mm Rh 202 cannon and maintaining compatibility with existing control units and optronic modules.

The Bundeswehr’s investment in the FLW 200 upgrade is part of a larger trend of modernizing its ground forces through targeted enhancements rather than wholesale replacements. This approach allows for more agile responses to emerging threats and technological developments. It also reflects a pragmatic balance between capability expansion and budgetary constraints, particularly in the context of Germany’s broader defense spending and procurement reforms.

The FLW 200 upgrade project represents a calculated step in the Bundeswehr’s ongoing efforts to adapt its armored vehicle fleet to contemporary and future operational demands. By integrating programmable airburst munitions and laying the groundwork for potential counter-drone capabilities, the Bundeswehr is positioning itself to address a wider range of threats with greater precision and flexibility. The modular and scalable nature of the FLW system ensures that these enhancements can be implemented efficiently, reinforcing the system’s role as a cornerstone of Germany’s armored vehicle defense strategy.