Soldier in camouflage points to touchscreen display at defense expo with aircraft in background.
Analytics and Reports, Global Small Arms Analytics, Trade Show Analytics

Modernizing the Bundeswehr Small Arms: Insights from ILA Berlin 2026

1. Executive Summary

The International Aerospace Exhibition (ILA) Berlin 2026 serves as an indicator for measuring shifting operational priorities and procurement strategies within European defense architectures. While historically focused on commercial aviation and large-scale military aerospace platforms, the 2026 iteration reflects a systemic expansion into ground combat lethality, dismounted infantry systems, and cross-domain operational integration.1 Driven by Germany’s Zeitenwende—a major policy shift initiated in 2022 to increase national defense spending and modernize the Bundeswehr—the exhibition highlights an overhaul of the German military’s small arms arsenal and associated infantry support systems.1

This report provides a technical, mechanical, and strategic analysis of the small arms, infantry equipment, and specialized tactical networks displayed and discussed at ILA Berlin 2026. The analysis identifies three primary trajectories currently defining modern small arms development and procurement. First, the generational replacement of Germany’s standard and specialized infantry weapons is underway, transitioning the armed forces from aging legacy platforms to the Heckler & Koch G95 series assault rifles, the G210 precision marksman rifles, and the CZ P13 and Walther P14 secondary sidearms. Second, there is an industry-wide push for the integration of kinetic Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) at the tactical echelons, manifesting in computerized fire control sights, programmable fragmentation ammunition, and automated multi-barrel shotgun turrets.3 Third, the continued digitization of the dismounted soldier remains a priority, realized through programs such as the Infantry Soldier of the Future – Enhanced System (IdZ-ES) and the fielding of advanced laser-light modules.6

The responses from European and international defense manufacturers demonstrate a shift away from isolated firearm development. Instead, the industry is moving toward networked infantry systems designed to operate and survive in drone-heavy and electronically degraded environments.

2. Strategic Context: The Zeitenwende and the Evolution of Infantry Systems at ILA Berlin

The operational and strategic backdrop of ILA Berlin 2026 is defined by the ongoing war in Ukraine, tensions in the Middle East, and the Federal Republic of Germany’s ambition to establish itself as the conventional military backbone of European defense.1 The event hosted more than 750 exhibitors from 37 countries, featuring significant participation from international defense sectors, including a prominent Israeli national pavilion following a year of record-breaking total Israeli defense exports surpassing $19 billion.1

2.1 The Expansion into Ground and Cross-Domain Defense Networks

While historically focused on civilian aviation, space exploration, and large-scale military aerospace, ILA Berlin has evolved to reflect multi-domain warfare. The establishment of the Military Support Center (MSC) and the institutional presence of the German Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) underscore the integration of ground forces into the broader aerospace narrative.2

Modern threat scenarios have blurred the traditional demarcations between the ground and air domains. Dismounted infantry squads, mechanized units, and logistics convoys are routinely targeted by airborne loitering munitions, micro-drones, and First-Person View (FPV) kamikaze systems, necessitating the deployment of organic, squad-level air defense capabilities.10 Consequently, the small arms displayed at the exhibition are assessed heavily on their capacity to interface with digital battlefield networks, host advanced electro-optics, and effectively defeat low-altitude aerial threats.3

2.2 Industrial Revitalization and Defense Spending

The influx of capital resulting from the Zeitenwende and the €100 billion special defense fund has accelerated procurement timelines and stimulated the domestic defense industrial base. Heckler & Koch, headquartered in Oberndorf am Neckar, spent a decade operating with struggling profitability.12

However, recent financial reports indicate that incoming orders in the first half of the year rose by 42.8 percent, reaching a volume of €282.5 million, while overall turnover increased to €179.5 million.12 This recovery is linked to the supply of the new HK416 A8 assault rifle to the Bundeswehr, as well as supplementary orders for submachine guns and machine guns from domestic and international entities.12 This financial stability ensures that the primary provider of German infantry weapons maintains the capital necessary for continued research and manufacturing.

3. System Sturmgewehr Bundeswehr: The Heckler & Koch G95 Series

The most significant small arms procurement program for the German Armed Forces is the System Sturmgewehr Bundeswehr (Bundeswehr Assault Rifle System). This program is tasked with the significant logistical challenge of replacing the legacy Heckler & Koch G36 assault rifle. Following a protracted procurement process that initially saw the C.G. Haenel MK556 selected before being disqualified over patent infringement disputes, Heckler & Koch secured the contract with their HK416 A8 platform.13

At ILA Berlin 2026, the finalized configurations of these rifles—officially designated by the military as the G95A1 and G95KA1—were central to discussions regarding future infantry lethality. The total contract encompasses the procurement of 118,718 rifles at an initial cost of approximately €209 million.14

3.1 Technical Architecture and Mechanical Specifications

The core architecture of the G95 series relies on a short-stroke gas piston operating system, which serves as its primary mechanical differentiator from the direct impingement (DI) system found in traditional U.S. AR-15 variants.15 The HK416 A8’s gas piston design utilizes expanding gases to drive a solid operating rod rearward, cycling the weapon. This mechanism keeps hot gas and fouling particulate matter away from the internal action, providing advantages in ease of maintenance and overall reliability during high-volume firing schedules or suppressed operations.15

The Bundeswehr is procuring the rifle system in two primary barrel lengths to satisfy differing operational requirements:

  • G95A1: The standard-issue infantry rifle, featuring a 16.5-inch barrel designed to maximize the ballistic coefficient and terminal velocity of the 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge for line infantry units.15
  • G95KA1: A compact carbine variant featuring a shorter 14-inch barrel, tailored specifically for mechanized infantry, airborne units, and specialized rear-echelon personnel who require a more maneuverable platform.15

An ergonomic evolution specific to the A8 variant is the inclusion of an ambidextrous fire selector lever configuration with an angle that mimics legacy Heckler & Koch platforms like the G36 and the MP5.14 This minimizes the retraining burden for personnel transitioning from the G36.14

SpecificationHeckler & Koch G95A1Heckler & Koch G95KA1
Platform BaseHeckler & Koch HK416 A8Heckler & Koch HK416 A8
Caliber5.56x45mm NATO5.56x45mm NATO
Operating SystemShort-stroke gas piston, rotating boltShort-stroke gas piston, rotating bolt
Barrel Length16.5 inches (419 mm)14.0 inches (355 mm)
Primary Combat OpticELCAN SpecterDR 1-4xELCAN SpecterDR 1-4x
Total Procurement VolumePart of 118,718 total riflesPart of 118,718 total rifles

Data compiled from Bundeswehr procurement records, testing documentation, and manufacturer specifications.15

3.2 Testing Protocols, Climate Validation, and Overcoming the G36 Legacy

The legacy G36 rifle reportedly suffered from point-of-impact shifts when subjected to extreme environmental heat, largely attributed to its polymer trunnion design. Consequently, defense authorities demanded high reliability from the successor platform.

In late 2022, defense authorities faced scrutiny after reportedly modifying the testing requirements to accelerate the fielding process, initially allowing testing in controlled laboratory environments using commercial-grade ammunition.15 A leaked classified report in early 2024 revealed that under these laboratory conditions, the weapon failed to provide sufficient accuracy parameters when loaded with combat ammunition.15

To validate the platform for global deployment, the Bundeswehr executed environmental stress tests facilitated by the United States Army.15 Test configurations of both variants were subjected to extreme arid conditions and abrasive dust at the Yuma Proving Ground (YPG) in Arizona, followed by evaluation at a Panamanian testing facility utilized by the U.S. Army Tropic Regions Test Center (TRTC) to assess performance in hot and humid jungle environments.15 Feedback from German personnel overseeing the trials indicated that the weapon systems functioned reliably in both environments, validating the HK416 A8’s thermal stability.15

3.3 Optic Integration, Handguards, and Modularity

The standard combat optic selected for the G95 series is the ELCAN SpecterDR 1-4x, allowing soldiers to switch between a 1x magnification red dot for close-quarters battle and a 4x magnified reticle for positive target identification.15 German Special Operations Command (KSK) utilizes a slightly different setup for their older G95 (HK416 A7) variants, preferring a non-magnifying EOTech EXPS3 holographic sight paired with a flip-to-side G33 1-3x magnifier.15

During testing in Panama, G95 rifles were observed configured with handguards utilizing the M-LOK accessory attachment system developed by Magpul, diverging from the proprietary HKey attachment system depicted in earlier promotional imagery.15 The presence of M-LOK indicates a shift toward a more universal, NATO-compatible accessory ecosystem for rapid integration of tactical lights and laser modules.15

4. Precision and Specialized Firepower: Snipers and Subcompacts

While the G95 addresses baseline requirements, specialized units require platforms tailored to specific tactical envelopes, including precision marksman roles, long-range interdiction, and acoustically mitigated operations.

4.1 The G210 Semi-Automatic Sniper Rifle (MR308A6)

To replace aging precision rifles in the short-to-medium range engagement envelope, the Bundeswehr selected the Heckler & Koch MR308A6, officially designated as the G210.17 Chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO, the G210 provides a ballistic advantage over 5.56mm platforms in kinetic energy transfer and effective range.17

The G210 features a 16.75-inch barrel and weighs approximately 4.4 kg without a loaded magazine.17 A key ergonomic upgrade specific to the A6 variant is the relocation of the charging handle to the side of the weapon, allowing operators to manipulate the action without breaking their cheek weld or encountering obstruction from sniper optics.17 The Bundeswehr contract dictates the delivery of up to 500 G210 systems dedicated to special forces, with fielding scheduled to begin in 2025.17

4.2 The G39 SD Suppressed Assault Rifle (HK437)

For direct action operations requiring a minimal acoustic and visual signature, the Bundeswehr contracted the Heckler & Koch HK437, officially designated as the G39 SD.17 This platform represents a notable doctrinal shift for German special operations, moving away from legacy 9x19mm submachine guns like the MP5SD toward the specialized.300 Blackout (7.62x35mm) cartridge.21

The G39 SD features a compact 9-inch barrel and utilizes an indirect gas-operated rotating bolt system.20 The.300 Blackout chambering offers dual-role capability. With 220-grain subsonic ammunition, the projectile avoids the supersonic ballistic crack, yielding acoustic mitigation similar to an MP5SD but with roughly double the muzzle energy (approximately 742 Joules versus 380 Joules).21 Operators can transition to high-velocity supersonic ammunition by changing the magazine, converting the weapon into a combat rifle capable of defeating body armor at intermediate ranges.21

Bar graph comparing subsonic muzzle energy for small arms systems

4.3 Long-Range Interdiction: G22A2 and G29 Bolt-Action Systems

Long-range precision is maintained by specialized bolt-action platforms. The German military tested the Accuracy International G22A2 and C.G. Haenel G29 sniper rifles alongside the G95 at the Panamanian facility.15

The G22A2, chambered in.300 Winchester Magnum, is a modernized variant of the standard Bundeswehr sniper rifle. The G29, chambered in.338 Lapua Magnum, serves as a medium-to-long-range anti-personnel and light anti-materiel platform.15 Subjecting these precision instruments to high humidity ensures that their tight tolerances and optical clarity remain functional in harsh environments.

5. Squad-Level Suppression: Machine Guns and Tactical Enhancements

A critical component of infantry maneuver warfare is the ability to establish suppressive fire. The Bundeswehr’s modernization extends to squad automatic weapons and general-purpose machine guns (GPMGs).

5.1 The MG4 and MG5 Systems

To replace the aging MG3, the Bundeswehr has invested in the Heckler & Koch MG4 and MG5 belt-fed machine guns. Both platforms were subjected to rigorous climate testing in Panama and Arizona.15

The MG4 is a light machine gun (LMG) chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, designed for a single soldier to provide suppressive fire while sharing ammunition commonality with the G95.15 The MG5, chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO, operates as a medium machine gun fired from a bipod, tripod, or vehicle mount, delivering sustained heavy fire.15

5.2 FN Herstal Innovations: MAG Tactical Kits and the Minimi Mk3

FN Herstal unveiled a Tactical Modernization Kit for the legacy FN MAG 7.62mm GPMG, focusing on modernized accessory rails, improved bipod mechanisms, and adjustable buttstocks.24 The company also highlighted the Minimi Mk3 light machine gun, incorporating an adjustable stock with a hydraulic buffer to mitigate felt recoil and a feed tray designed for easier reloading.24

6. The New Sidearm Paradigm: System Pistole Querschnittlich and Spezialkräfte

A comprehensive modernization strategy requires addressing secondary weapon systems. The German military has initiated a complete replacement of its handgun inventory across both general-issue and specialized echelons, phasing out older hammer-fired platforms for modern, striker-fired, optics-ready systems.

6.1 The Standard Service Pistol: CZ P13 (P-10C OR)

The Bundeswehr has officially selected the 9mm CZ P-10C OR (Optics Ready) from Czech manufacturer Česká zbrojovka to serve as the new standard-issue secondary weapon, designated as the P13. This decision marks a historic shift, representing the first time in decades the German military has selected a standard-issue firearm not manufactured domestically.26 The striker-fired P13 will replace the legacy Heckler & Koch P8 and P8A1 models across the general forces. The framework contract accommodates the procurement of up to 200,000 pistols, which feature a Flat Dark Earth (FDE) finish and a slide cut to directly host a red-dot optic, reflecting the broader military trend toward pistol-mounted optics.

6.2 System Pistole Spezialkräfte: The Walther P14 and P14K

For the elite echelons of the German military, Carl Walther GmbH secured the System Pistole Spezialkräfte framework contract.26 The procurement targets the Special Forces Command (KSK), Naval Special Forces Command (KSM), and specialized military police units.29

The selected sidearms, designated as the P14 and P14K, are military variants of Walther’s Performance Duty Pistol (PDP).29 The Bundeswehr intends to procure 3,200 units of the full-size P14 and 3,300 units of the compact P14K.29 A mechanical characteristic of both models is the integration of Walther’s Performance Duty Trigger (PDT), engineered for a consistent 2,200-gram pull weight with a short reset, minimizing sight movement during the trigger press.29

6.3 Standardized Optics Integration and Suppressor Capabilities

The P13 and P14 programs represent a doctrinal shift by mandating slide-mounted red dot optics. The Walther P14 pistols are factory-milled to accept the Aimpoint ACRO P-2, an enclosed-emitter reflex sight resistant to environmental debris.27 To ensure redundancy, the pistols are fitted with suppressor-height iron sights for a lower one-third co-witness through the optic window.31 The threaded barrels (1/2″-28 UNEF) accommodate B&T Impuls-XM suppressors without requiring armorer modification.27

7. Target Acquisition and Digital Integration: The Rifle as a Sensor Node

A modern assault rifle is treated as a modular platform and a sensor node that relies on peripheral electronic enablers.

7.1 The Rheinmetall LLM-VarioRay

In conjunction with the G95 rifle rollout, BAAINBw finalized a follow-on order for Rheinmetall’s LLM-VarioRay Laser-Light-Modules, securing advanced tactical targeting systems for frontline soldiers through 2032.6

The LLM-VarioRay weighs approximately 250 grams and mounts to the G95A1’s STANAG 4694 rails.6 The module houses four selectable illumination and targeting capabilities:

  1. White Light LED: For close-quarters illumination.6
  2. Red-Light Laser Marker: Provides a visible aiming point.6
  3. Infrared (IR) Laser Marker: An aiming laser visible only through night vision devices (NVDs).6
  4. Focusable IR Illuminator: Acts as an invisible spotlight for NVD operations.6

The module features a factory-aligned internal laser block, allowing armorers to zero the primary optic and all laser systems simultaneously, reducing maintenance downtime.6

7.2 Network-Centric Infantry: IdZ-ES and Gladius

Rheinmetall’s presence at ILA 2026 underscored its focus on soldier systems through the Infanterist der Zukunft – Erweitertes System (IdZ-ES) program.6 BAAINBw awarded Rheinmetall a €1.04 billion order to deliver 237 additional IdZ-ES platoon systems between November 2027 and December 2029.7 This equips an additional 8,600 soldiers, bringing the Bundeswehr total to 353 fully digitized platoon systems.7

The IdZ-ES is a battle management system that networks the infantryman into the larger tactical picture.7 It digitally integrates the weapon’s LLM-VarioRay, thermal optics, and helmet-mounted displays, allowing leaders to share target data, designate threat sectors, and coordinate fires in real-time.

8. The Counter-UAS (C-UAS) Revolution in Infantry Arms

The threat posed by Class 1 Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) has prompted the defense industry to adapt standard infantry small arms to serve as localized C-UAS effectors.3

8.1 Smart Shooter SMASH Fire Control Systems

The SMASH family of computerized fire control systems by Smart Shooter utilizes integrated electro-optical sensors and image processing to detect, track, and lock onto small, fast-moving drones.3 Once the operator pulls the trigger, the system interrupts the firing sequence until its algorithms determine a guaranteed ballistic intercept, factoring in target speed, distance, and windage.36

The Bundeswehr has procured SMASH X4 and SMASH 3000SA systems to mount on rifles such as the G95K and G27P, transforming standard riflemen into mobile anti-aircraft assets.37

8.2 Programmable Fragmentation: Swiss P SHATTER4K Ammunition

Ammunition manufacturer Swiss P introduced the SHATTER4K cartridge to address the terminal ballistics of drone defense.5 Available in 5.56x45mm and 7.62x51mm, it requires no weapon modifications.5 The primary mechanical advantage of the SHATTER4K is a specialized polymer shell that separates after exiting the muzzle, releasing four lead effectors that travel in an expanding conical spread.5 When fired from a 5.56mm platform, the effectors exit at approximately 960 meters per second, delivering 267 Joules of energy per ball at close range to shatter drone components.40

8.3 High-Volume Kinetic Walls: The Beretta LIVET RCWS

For base defense against drone swarms, Beretta Defense Technologies showcased the LIVET Remote Controlled Weapon Station.4 The automated turret mounts eight Benelli M4 Drone Guardian semi-automatic shotguns onto a sensorized chassis, utilizing radar or electro-optical sensors to automatically track and engage targets.4 Firing 12-gauge Norma AD-LER tungsten shot at 405 meters per second, the system creates a dense pattern of heavy fragmentation, sustaining high rates of fire against coordinated swarm attacks without requiring immediate reloading.4

8.4 Hybrid Counter-UAS Systems: MBDA DEWS-L and DEFENDAIR

At ILA Berlin 2026, MBDA presented a hybrid air defense system that bridges the gap between infantry small arms and heavy surface-to-air missiles.35 The system integrates a high-energy laser weapon (DEWS-L) with the DEFENDAIR guided missile on a single anti-drone platform.35 This provides overlapping engagement envelopes: the laser offers a highly cost-effective, deep-magazine capability to neutralize close-range micro-drones and swarms, while the interceptor missile addresses larger, faster threats at greater distances.35

9. Heavy Infantry Firepower: Shoulder-Launched Systems and Smart Optics

The requirement for infantry to organically defeat fortified structures and armor remains critical.

9.1 The Dynamit Nobel Defence RGW110 HH-T

Developed by Dynamit Nobel Defence (DND), the RGW110 HH-T (High Explosive Anti-Tank / High Explosive Squash Head – Tandem) is the successor to the Panzerfaust 3.25 Operating as a recoilless grenade weapon, the RGW110 scales the existing RGW series up to a 110mm caliber.44

Weighing approximately 10 kg, the system is roughly 4 kg lighter than the Panzerfaust 3, reducing the physical burden while firing a tandem warhead capable of defeating up to 1,000 mm of rolled homogeneous armor (RHA).25 The system boasts an effective combat range of up to 800 meters and is designed to be fired from within enclosures (FFE).25 Hungary has secured a contract for the RGW110 to equip its modernizing forces.25

9.2 Precision Guided Infantry Weapons: MBDA Enforcer and HENSOLDT Dynahawk

The Bundeswehr utilizes the MBDA Enforcer (designated leichte Wirkmittel 1800+) as a lightweight, precision-guided, shoulder-launched missile system designed for engaging lightly armored targets at extended ranges. To maximize the first-round hit probability of both the Enforcer and the Dynamit Nobel RGW90 (Wirkmittel 90), the Bundeswehr recently finalized follow-on orders for the HENSOLDT Dynahawk fire control sight. The Dynahawk features a 5.5x optical magnification, an integrated laser rangefinder, and an environmental sensor suite (measuring temperature, air pressure, and angular rate). The sight’s ballistics computer automatically recognizes the loaded ammunition type and calculates the required ballistic offset, allowing for accuracy against both static and moving targets, as well as the programming of airburst munitions.

10. Airborne Small Arms Integration: Airbus H145M and the HForce System

The integration of small arms and medium-caliber automatic weapons onto light aviation assets bridges the gap between infantry maneuver tactics and close air support.

10.1 The H145M Light Combat Helicopter

The exhibition featured the Airbus H145M Light Combat Helicopter (LKH). The German armed forces ordered 82 units, with 72 destined for Army Aviation and 10 allocated to Luftwaffe special operations.49 The combat efficacy relies on traditional infantry-support calibers integrated via the Airbus HForce weapons management system.51

The modular HForce system allows the helicopter to attach specialized forward-firing gun pods:50

  • FN Herstal HMP400 Pod: Houses an FN M3P 12.7x99mm (.50 BMG) heavy machine gun, providing a rate of fire of 1,100 rounds per minute for anti-personnel suppression.52
  • Nexter NC621 Pod: Houses a 20x102mm cannon, firing at 800 rounds per minute to defeat light armored vehicles.52

Migrating heavy machine guns onto rotary-wing platforms delivers concentrated suppression from the vertical axis, supporting dismounted infantry elements on the ground.

11. Lessons Learned and Future Trajectories

The hardware, digital systems, and combat platforms displayed at ILA Berlin 2026 illustrate several actionable lessons absorbed by Western militaries.

First, military procurement processes must mandate rigorous environmental testing prior to fielding. The desert trials at Yuma Proving Ground and the tropical trials in Panama for the G95 series highlight a strict requirement that platforms must function flawlessly in deployment environments, rather than relying solely on laboratory parameters.

Second, infantry elements are adapting to serve as their own organic air defense. The proliferation of systems like the Smart Shooter SMASH sight, the Swiss P SHATTER4K fragmenting ammunition, and the Beretta LIVET shotgun turret demonstrate that kinetic small arms augmented with smart sensors are currently a viable defense against low-cost drone swarms.

Finally, hardware modularity and comprehensive digital integration are foundational requirements. Whether integrating M-LOK accessory rails or investing in the IdZ-ES soldier network, the modern firearm is increasingly viewed as the kinetic end-effector of a broader digital combat matrix, retooling small arms to meet complex multi-domain requirements.

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