Israel Aerospace Industries Unveils New Tactical Vehicle for German Special Forces

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has unveiled the first vehicle based on its Elta Systems' ZD platform, designated TAHR in Germany. The vehicle is intended for the German Army's special forces and is slated for delivery under a framework agreement signed last October. The unveiling took place at the 10th annual conference of the German Special Forces Command in Altensteig-Wart.

The TAHR was presented through Plansys Technology Systems (FTS), a joint venture between IAI's Elta division and Germany's FFG. This light tactical vehicle is designed to be air-transportable to operational areas and has been customized to meet the specific requirements of the German special forces, with production occurring in Germany. The underlying platform has already undergone testing in combat conditions.

The TAHR is offered in two configurations: one for combat troops as an air-transportable tactical vehicle, and another as an operational support vehicle, also air-droppable. Both variants share the same platform, emphasizing high mobility and cross-country capability. The vehicle features an open architecture, allowing for mission-specific adaptations and integration of various weapon systems. Its design provides the crew with a wide field of vision and accommodates additional systems as needed.

A key requirement from the German special forces was the ability to transport two TAHR vehicles simultaneously within a CH-47 Chinook transport helicopter. IAI states that the vehicles can be made operationally ready shortly after disembarking.

In October 2025, FTS signed a framework agreement with the German Federal Office for Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) for the supply of up to 200 vehicles. The financial scope and delivery timeline were not disclosed.

IAI CEO Guy Barlev stated that Germany is a strategic partner for building joint defense capabilities, emphasizing collaboration across air, sea, and land domains. Elta CEO Dror Bar highlighted the TAHR project milestone, noting the vehicle's presentation ahead of schedule and the strong industrial cooperation with German partners.