The German Bundeswehr has initiated a major overhaul of its Army Combat Training Center, selecting Rheinmetall for a €61 million ($70.4 million) modernization contract aimed at transforming the site into a cutting-edge digital warfare training hub. Scheduled to begin in 2025 and complete by early 2028, the project is foundational to Germany’s broader effort to create a technologically connected and data-centric defense ecosystem.
This modernization is closely aligned with the D-LBO (Digitalisation of Land-based Operations) initiative, which seeks to integrate the training center with Germany’s expanding digital battle management network. Planned upgrades include introducing a next-generation radio communication suite, significantly expanding the center’s communication infrastructure, and installing a robust 5G broadband network for high-speed, secure connectivity. The integration of Blackned’s Tactical Core system will further strengthen communication reliability and ensure seamless real-time coordination during large-scale exercises.
Once operational, the upgraded training center will offer enhanced monitoring and analytics capabilities, allowing instructors to examine unit performance with far greater precision. New software modules capable of integrating data from Sitaware Frontline and Sitaware HQ will provide a detailed operational picture, including command flow, troop maneuvers, and battlefield communication quality. These improvements will support more realistic digital combat simulations and deliver more accurate after-action assessments.
Located in Saxony-Anhalt’s Altmark region, the enhanced facility is expected to become a premier location for joint and multinational NATO training events. The development also complements Rheinmetall’s recently awarded multibillion-dollar soldier systems contract—worth up to $3.2 billion starting in 2025—highlighting Germany’s long-term drive to strengthen its digital combat readiness and modernize its ground forces.
