EUROSATORY 2016 - KMW + Nexter Defense Systems (KNDS) (A570)

KMW + Nexter Defense Systems (KNDS) (A570).

By Wording OD

The largest outdoor stand at Eurosatory 2016 is that of KMW + Nexter Defense Systems (KNDS) (A570). This follows the merger of Germany’s Krauss- Maffei Wegmann and French company Nexter Systems in December 2015. The formation of KNDS represents the beginning of consolidation of land defence systems in Europe, which are still fragmented. In a statement issued here, KNDS co-chief executive officers Stéphane Mayer and Frank Haun said: “We are glad to present our new step forward on the path to a strong European defence group through our new name and our common presence during Eurosatory.”

According to KNDS, the strategic alliance between the two companies will enhance both groups’ competitiveness and internal positions as well as their ability to meet the needs of their respective national defence forces.The new name clearly identifies the alliance between the two, By preserving both corporate identities and their logos, and by combining their colours, Krauss- Maffei Wegmann and Nexter Systems are affirming their co-operation by pooling their strengths and capitalising on the good fit they form. At the same time, each company maintains its own capabilities and products.

The KNDS stand shows the complete portfolio of land systems available from the two companies, which range from the German Leopard 2 and French Leclerc main battle tanks to other tracked and wheeled armoured fighting vehicles (AFVs), artillery systems and munitions. At present there is no joint programme that would cement the two companies together because they are each already involved in major AFV programmes for their own nations’ land forces.

Source: Eurosatory 2016/Jane´s Defense.