BAAINBw Signs Contract with MBDA to Begin TAURUS NEO Serial Production

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TAURUS Systems GmbH (TSG), a joint venture between MBDA and SAAB, together with the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw), has finalized a contract to establish a serial production line for the enhanced TAURUS NEO stand-off guided missile system. This agreement sets the foundation for large-scale manufacturing in Germany, reflecting MBDA’s intention to expand output significantly.

Credit: MBDA

In parallel, MBDA has already initiated work on new technologies under the TAURUS maintenance and modernization program awarded in December 2024. This effort is designed to accelerate the availability of the first upgraded systems while simultaneously advancing additional capabilities. The contract also secures expanded production capacity for the modular TAURUS weapon, ensuring that future requirements can be met with greater efficiency.

The Bundeswehr’s procurement of TAURUS NEO represents a decisive step in strengthening Germany’s deep strike capability. The missile is engineered to penetrate hostile air defence networks from long distances, thereby reducing exposure to pilots and aircraft. With a range exceeding 500 kilometres and precision standards among the highest in its class, TAURUS contributes directly to deterrence and enhances both national and allied defence strategies.

Looking at MBDA’s broader industrial trajectory, the company has already doubled missile production between 2023 and 2025 across its portfolio. Building on this momentum, MBDA has committed to invest EUR 2.4 billion from 2025 to 2029 to sustain and expand production capacity. This financial commitment underlines the long-term strategy to secure supply readiness and meet growing demand for advanced missile systems.

By combining ongoing modernization work with new production infrastructure, MBDA and its partners are positioning TAURUS NEO as a cornerstone of Germany’s future strike capability. The integration of advanced technologies, expanded facilities, and sustained investment ensures that the system will be available at the earliest possible stage, reinforcing operational readiness and supporting the Bundeswehr’s evolving mission requirements.

TAURUS NEO Next-Gen Missile Specifications & Features

  • Type: Long-range, precision strike cruise missile.

  • Range: Exceeds 500 km (310+ miles).

  • Speed: High subsonic, approx. Mach 0.95.

  • Stealth: Incorporates stealth shaping and advanced ECM resistance.

  • Navigation: GPS-independent, advanced terrain-following (TOS) for low-level penetration flight.

  • Warhead: Dual-stage MEPHISTO warhead with:

    • Pre-charge for penetrating concrete/soil.

    • Variable-delay fuze for optimized internal detonation.

  • Targets: Hardened, high-value assets such as bunkers, command centers, and bridges.

  • Launch Platforms: Modular integration with Tornado, F-15K, F-18, and future aircraft like the F-35.

Key Advancements in the NEO Version

  • Extended Range: Significantly longer reach compared to the KEPD 350.

  • Enhanced Survivability: Improved shielding and resistance against electronic countermeasures.

  • Future-Proof Design: Modular architecture allowing upgrades, including potential next-gen engines and seeker technologies.

Operational Role

  • Provides precision strikes from safe stand-off distances.

  • Capable of penetrating heavily fortified defenses.

  • Ensures effectiveness against GPS-denied environments and advanced jamming threats.

Development & Procurement

  • Ordered by Germany to enhance its long-range strike capability.

  • Production led by Taurus Systems (MBDA/Saab joint venture).

  • First deliveries expected around 2029.