Rheinmetall has received a major order from a NATO customer for several hundred HERO loitering munition systems, the company announced in a press release. The contract value is in the low three-digit-million euro range. Deliveries will begin in the first quarter of 2026 and are expected to be completed by the end of the same year.
The systems will be produced in Italy by RWM Italia with support from UVision Air Ltd., Rheinmetall’s partner in loitering munition technologies. The ordered HERO models will feature the latest generation of high-performance anti-tank warheads developed by Rheinmetall.
RWM Italia is currently conducting full-rate serial production of loitering munitions at its modern manufacturing facility. The company’s product lineup includes:
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HERO 30, a small and portable LM for infantry use
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HERO 120, a medium-sized LM for precision strikes on armored vehicles and fixed installations
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HERO 400, a medium- to long-range LM designed for fortified targets
Rheinmetall noted that several NATO countries in Europe have placed orders for the HERO family in recent months.
The company highlighted the growing importance of drones and loitering munitions in modern warfare. Rheinmetall has expanded its portfolio both in offensive capabilities and counter-UAS technologies. Its unmanned systems lineup includes the LUNA NG reconnaissance drone and several other UAS models developed in cooperation with companies such as Lockheed Martin, Anduril and Auterion.
Rheinmetall also emphasized its leading position in drone defense solutions. Its offerings span the full sensor-to-effector chain, including detection, identification and engagement using jammers, cannon-based air defense systems such as the Skyranger, and high-energy laser systems.