Rheinmetall has received a major commission from a NATO customer for the delivery of HERO loitering munition systems. According to the company, several hundred systems have been ordered this year and the total contract value is reported to be in the low three digit million euro range. Deliveries are planned to begin in the first quarter of 2026 and will continue until the end of that year.
Production will take place in Italy at the facilities of RWM Italia which will manage serial manufacturing with support from UVision Air Ltd. The ordered systems will feature Rheinmetall’s newest high performance anti tank warheads that reflect ongoing efforts to increase precision and lethality in modern operational environments.
Interest in the HERO family continues to grow among European NATO members. RWM Italia is currently producing several key models including HERO 30 for infantry missions, HERO 120 for precision engagement of armored vehicles and fixed positions, and HERO 400 for medium and extended range missions where fortified structures may be present. These systems give units the ability to conduct independent and precise strikes without the complex coordination that was once required across multiple levels of command.
The HERO series has been designed to remain airborne over the operational area and provide real time intelligence that supports rapid and informed decision making. Operators can track and verify potential targets, determine the most effective direction and moment of attack, and if necessary call the munition back before the final strike. This capability is particularly relevant in environments affected by communication interference and the absence of GPS signals.
The broader HERO portfolio includes both man portable and vehicle launched systems. Smaller versions such as HERO 30, HERO 90 and HERO 120 can be deployed by a single soldier within minutes and can also be mounted on light vehicles. These models were developed to support infantry forces and special operations units that require mobility and rapid response. Larger versions such as HERO 400EC, HERO 900 and HERO 1250 are aimed at units responsible for extended range missions and carry more powerful warheads. They are launched from land vehicles or naval platforms and allow control from a ground station as well as the option to transfer control to forward teams when required.
Connectivity is a central feature of the HERO family. The systems provide full integration with existing command and control structures and offer real time data that enhances situational awareness for units in the field.
The growing significance of loitering munitions reflects broader changes in contemporary warfare. Rheinmetall has expanded its presence in this field through platforms such as the LUNA NG reconnaissance drone and through cooperation with companies including Lockheed Martin, Anduril and Auterion. The company is also a leading provider of counter drone solutions. Its portfolio covers detection, identification and a range of countermeasures including jamming systems, cannon based air defense solutions such as the Skyranger and high energy laser systems.
The new NATO order reinforces the increasing demand in Europe for precise loitering munition capabilities and highlights Rheinmetall’s strengthening role in the development of next generation unmanned systems.
