Germany has ordered 23 Bergepanzer 3 Büffel armored recovery vehicles from Rheinmetall to replace systems previously supplied to Ukraine, in a deal valued in the “mid-three-digit million-euro range.”
The order follows Berlin’s June 2026 budget approval to replenish the Bundeswehr’s recovery and support stockpile after the NATO government transferred 21 Bergepanzer 2 and two Bergepanzer 3 platforms to Kyiv amid its defense against Russia’s invasion.
Rheinmetall said the German Armed Forces will receive the new vehicles in the latest A2 configuration, upgrading its primary capability for damaged vehicle salvaging, field repairs, and other frontline assistance.
The company has already begun production in advance and pre-financed early work to shorten timelines.
The first vehicle under the deal will be shipped next year, with final deliveries scheduled for 2029.
“The replacement order highlights the ongoing importance of the Bergepanzer 3 as a key support system for mechanised forces,” Rheinmetall said.
“This measure is not intended to develop new capabilities, but rather to ensure long-term operational readiness based on a proven, commercially available system manufactured using state-of-the-art processes.”
The Bergepanzer 3 Büffel
Based on the Leopard 2 main battle tank chassis, the Bergepanzer 3 Büffel system incorporates a crane boom that swings 270 degrees and features an option for a clearing blade integration.
The vehicle has a maximum hook load of 30 tonnes (66,130 pounds) and a pulling force of up to 105 tonnes (231,485 pounds), all supported by a Rotzler Treibmatic TR 650/3 main winch with a 160-meter (525-foot) cable and an HZ 010 Rotzler auxiliary winch with a 230-meter (755-foot) cable.
Bergepanzer 3 is operated by a driver, mechanic, and commander. It is covered with steel plates, with a hull designed to redirect incoming shells, and can be equipped with a 7.62mm air defense machine gun as well as a 76mm grenade launcher.
The platform is fitted with an MTU MB 873 Ka-501 engine with an output of 1,500 horsepower and a Renk HSWL 354 transmission, enabling speeds over 60 kilometers (37 miles) per hour and a range of 500 kilometers (311 miles).
