According to information published by the German defense website Hartpunkt on November 27, 2024, the German Ministry of Defense has officially launched a procurement process for the PULS (Precise and Universal Launching System) as part of the Bundeswehr’s (German army) Future Long-Range Indirect Fire System program.
This acquisition aims to replace the five MARS II Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) platforms that were recently donated to Ukraine as part of Germany’s military aid package. The PULS system, developed by Israeli defense contractor Elbit Systems, promises to enhance Germany’s missile artillery capabilities with a new generation of rocket launchers capable of delivering a wide range of precision-guided munitions.
The decision to acquire PULS is a strategic move to replace the older MARS II system, which has been in service with the Bundeswehr for decades. The MARS II, a European version of the American M270 MLRS, is being phased out as part of a broader modernization effort within Germany’s armed forces. The Euro-PULS, a variant of the original Israeli system, will be tailored specifically to meet the needs of the German Army. The system promises to provide flexible and precise fire support over extended ranges, addressing the growing demand for more advanced, multi-role artillery systems. In particular, the new Euro-PULS system will be integrated into the German military’s broader defense infrastructure in collaboration with Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW), a German defense manufacturer known for its expertise in armored vehicles and artillery.
The PULS system stands out for its versatility and precision. It can launch various rockets, including the Accular 122mm and 160mm rockets, with ranges of up to 35 km and 40 km, respectively. Additionally, it can fire the EXTRA rocket, which has a range of 150 km, and the Predator Hawk rocket, which can strike targets up to 300 km away. This wide range of munitions ensures that the system can be used for various mission types, from close support to long-range precision strikes against high-value targets. The PULS system also features a fully automated loading and firing system, reducing crew requirements and increasing the speed at which the system can operate in dynamic battlefield environments. Mounted on a robust 8×8 wheeled chassis, the PULS is highly mobile, ensuring that it can be deployed quickly across different terrains and in challenging operational conditions.