Germany and the United Kingdom have signed a contract worth over €450 million with the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) to jointly procure the latest generation of M3 amphibious bridging and ferry systems from General Dynamics European Land Systems–Bridge Systems (GDELS) in Kaiserslautern.

UK's Martlet missile completes live trials, cleared for front-line use
UK's Martlet missile completes live trials, cleared for front-line use
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The bilateral Wide Wet Gap Crossing Program (WWGC) renews cooperation between Europe’s two largest NATO contributors, whose forces last received M3 vehicles in 1999. The program aims to enhance operational flexibility and mobility in both combat and disaster-relief missions.

Based on the Swedish M3 (M3S) configuration, the new systems will include improved human-machine interfaces, enhanced reliability, higher system safety, and lower lifecycle costs. The fleets will also be interoperable and interchangeable with other NATO bridging systems, such as SRB, FSB, and IRB pontoons, strengthening alliance-wide mobility.

The M3 can be deployed as either a bridge or ferry, capable of transporting heavy main battle tanks across rivers and other wide water obstacles. It is designed for rapid deployment and has been tested in diverse climatic and geographical environments.

“The new M3 will provide Germany and the UK with much-anticipated, state-of-the-art floating-bridge capabilities enabling unhindered maneuverability for all NATO vehicles. More than 90% of all NATO amphibious bridging capabilities are supplied by GDELS,” said Dr. Thomas Kauffmann, Vice President and Chief Sales Officer of GDELS.

“We are proud to continuously deliver the M3 out of our Kaiserslautern sites, where we are substantially investing into additional production capabilities in line with GDELS’ German growth strategy 24/500,” added Dr. Christian Kauth, Vice President and Managing Director of GDELS Bridge Systems.

“The acquisition confirms GDELS’ leading position as a powerhouse for land defense in Europe and underlines the company’s commitment to its European customers,” said Antonio Bueno, President of GDELS.

Deliveries will begin under OCCAR supervision, ensuring full alignment with NATO interoperability standards and operational readiness targets.