DÜSSELDORF (Germany), April 25, 2018, Text: Bm News Team, Photo: Rheinmetall

Rheinmetall has offered its armoured fighting vehicles Lynx to the Czech Army for its planned replacement of the BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) dated from the 1980s, reported Shephard Media.

This was announced by Rheinmetall AG last week on 17th April.

The Czech Army plans to procure over 200 fighting vehicles of medium-weight most of which are to be equipped with a high-performance medium-calibre turret. The initiative is under the current modernization program of the Czech Army which covers replacement of its old platforms, including the BMP-2s.

According to Rheinmetall, Lynx is an appropriate option for the purpose mentioned above, because it involves the Lance turret system. Its main armament is an airburst-capable automatic cannon offered in 30 mm and 35 mm versions. Through the cannon Lynx may engage targets at ranges of up to 3,000 m, even while it is moving.

Various antitank guided missiles like the EuroSPIKE may be integrated in the Lynx vehicles. Advanced electronic countermeasures and remotely controlled weapon stations are other possible options for the Lynx.

The Lynx is manufactured in two versions: KF31 and KF41. The weight of the KF41 is over 40 tonnes and is designed for 3 crew members and 8 fully-equipped infantrymen. The weight of the KF31 is up to 38 tonnes and is designed for 3 crew members and 6 fully-equipped troops. Both vehicle versions may be adapted for missions (including medevac operations); reconnaissance, command and control; and repair and recovery.

Rheinmetall AG is an international powerful corporation based in Düsseldorf. It is the management holding company of the Rheinmetall Group featuring two sectors – Rheinmetall Defence and Rheinmetall Automotive.