Diehl Defence unveiled the upgraded KDV Garmr system.
The first version of the KDV system, presented in 2024. Photo: Telegram / "Obsessed with War"
Like many other companies, Germany's Diehl Defence is looking for effective ways to combat drones. aviation and develops related equipment. Several years ago, for example, it unveiled the KDV self-propelled anti-aircraft mount, designed to counter UAVs. This project was subsequently developed, and a new version of this system, called Garmr, was recently unveiled.
Project and its development
By 2022-23, Diehl Defence began developing a new self-propelled anti-aircraft system designed to counter small and medium-sized UAVs. As was later revealed, the project was designated KDV (Kinetic Defense Vehicle). A sound development approach allowed the project to be completed in minimal time.
As early as February 2024, Diehl Defense unveiled the first results of the new project. A prototype self-propelled anti-aircraft system was unveiled at the Enforce TAC exhibition in Nuremberg. At the time, the name of this system was not disclosed. The system was built on an affordable vehicle chassis and equipped with the necessary electronic systems and a machine gun.
It was reported that the new design takes into account the experience of recent armed conflicts, in which small UAVs were actively used. These objects are considered the primary targets, and all aspects of the new system are optimized for combating them.
The updated Garmr system at Enforce TAC 2026. Photo: jArmyrecognition.com
Apparently, the prototype system subsequently underwent testing and possibly confirmed its design characteristics. However, the developer deemed it necessary to continue developing the project. This primarily affected the combat vehicle's configuration. It received additional resources that should improve its combat capabilities.
An updated version of the KDV was recently unveiled at the Enforce TAC 2026 exhibition. Interestingly, the upgraded system has been given a new name. It's called Garmr, after the four-eyed dog from Norse mythology that guards the underworld of Helheim. This name likely reflects the system's high level of vision and the protection it offers.
In its current form and under its new name, the KDV Garmr system is ready for full-scale entry into the arms and military equipment market. Diehl Defence will likely now begin a promotional campaign, and the first orders may be placed in the near future. Moreover, according to some reports, the KDV has already found a buyer.
Commercial prospects
The developer positions its "Garm" product as a highly effective, specialized countermeasure against reconnaissance and attack UAVs of various classes and types. It is expected that combat vehicles of this type will be of interest to the armies and security forces of various countries. Depending on the customer's needs, the systems can be used in Defense objects and areas, as well as accompany troops.
The system undergoing testing. The UAV launcher is deployed. Photo by Diehl Defence
The first order for KDV systems was placed in December 2024. The buyer was the German federal government. It decided to purchase 12 such systems for delivery to Ukraine as military-technical assistance. The order was subsequently increased by four more units.
The cost and delivery time of the new equipment were not disclosed at the time. Furthermore, no further information has been released since then. news There were no reports of the order's completion. The finished equipment has also not been seen in Ukraine.
Apparently, Diehl Defence is still assembling the combat vehicles it ordered. Manufacturing 16 vehicles, regardless of their configuration, will take some time. However, it can be assumed that production of these relatively simple systems is nearing completion. The first vehicles of the new type may be shipped to Ukraine in the near future.
No further orders for the KDV/Garmr system have been placed yet. Potential buyers are likely still undecided about this product. They may be awaiting the results of combat use in the conflict zone to draw conclusions. What these conclusions will be and whether they will help secure contracts remains to be seen.
Car with weapons
The Garmr system is distinguished by its relatively simple design. It is based on a production vehicle and is equipped with a variety of devices and weapons. This design is intended to simplify mass production, deployment, and operation. At the same time, measures are included to improve key performance characteristics.
Combat module and detection means
The exhibition complexes were built on the Enok MBB chassis. This is a stretched version of the well-known Mercedes-Benz G, modified to meet military requirements. This chassis features all-wheel drive, an unprotected body, a double-row cab, and space for installing the necessary equipment.
Various components are mounted on the vehicle, transforming it into a self-propelled anti-aircraft gun. For example, a combat module is mounted on the roof of the cabin, and the cargo platform houses detection equipment and a launcher for drones-interceptors. An operator's workstation is organized inside the cabin.
All KDV/Garmr variants are equipped with the R400S Slinger remote-controlled weapon station, developed by Australian company Electro Optic Systems. This compact turret can accommodate a standard-caliber or large-caliber machine gun. The station is also equipped with optoelectronic devices for day and night operations.
To increase its combat radius, the system is equipped with interceptor drones. The aft launcher can accommodate 20 Cicada-type UAVs with a range of up to 15-20 km. This version of the system is designated the Garmr SRS (Short-Range System). A medium-range version, the Garmr MRS, has also been developed. This system can utilize various types of interceptors with a range of up to 50-70 km.
The compact American-made Echodyne EchoGuard radar is used for air surveillance, target acquisition, and weapons pre-guidance. It detects large aerial targets at a range of at least 5-6 km. For small UAVs, the detection and tracking range is reduced to 1-1,5 km. Mounted on the same mast as the radar antenna is an optical electronic system with day and night channels, as well as a laser rangefinder.
All detection and engagement systems onboard the Garmr/KDV are integrated by a fire control system developed by Diehl Defense. It offloads most of the workload from the crew, while simultaneously ensuring high combat performance.
The crew of a self-propelled anti-aircraft system consists of only two or three people. It includes a driver and a gunner. The crew may also be reinforced by a commander, who will assume overall control of combat operations, communications with other crews, etc.
Limited success
Thus, recently, the German company Diehl Defence presented its vision for a specialized anti-UAV anti-aircraft system. This product was subsequently developed, and a new version under a new name was recently unveiled. Improvements to key performance characteristics and combat capabilities are reported.
Overall, the KDV/Garmr system looks quite interesting and appears to be suited to its intended combat missions. It has already undergone testing, and the developer is now bringing it to market. Moreover, the first order for a small quantity of the equipment has already been received.
Under the only existing contract, serial-produced Garms may be deployed to combat zones. There, they will have to demonstrate their true potential. Whether these systems will cope with these practical tests remains to be seen. They will face the Russian army, which has extensive experience in countering various air defense systems. Combat testing promises to be extremely challenging.
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