IAI debuts new tactical vehicle for German special forces

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has introduced a new tactical vehicle for Germany’s special forces, marking the first public appearance of the TAHR, a platform built on IAI’s ELTA ZD chassis and produced by Flensburg Technology Systems (FTS). 

The first pre-series vehicle was unveiled ahead of schedule at the annual conference of the German Special Forces Command, the Kommando Spezialkräfte  (KSK), in Altensteig‑Wart on Tuesday.

The TAHR is based on the Israeli ZD platform developed by IAI ELTA, which has been battle-proven by Israeli special forces. FFTS, a joint venture between IAI’s ELTA division and German defense contractor FFG, developed and manufactures the vehicle in Germany.

Designed as a light, air‑transportable platform, the TAHR incorporates operational modifications requested by the KSK, including an open architecture for integrating weapons and sensors and a layout intended to improve situational awareness. Its compact dimensions also enable two TAHRs to be transported inside CH‑47 Chinook helicopters, with crews able to achieve combat readiness shortly after landing, a core requirement for airborne special operations.

The TAHR will be delivered to the KSK in two variants, a combat configuration and a support model. Both are based on an existing all‑terrain platform already in service. FTS adapted the design to meet the KSK's mission-specific requirements, which rely heavily on rapid deployment and mobility in demanding environments.

“The KSK’s mission is to conduct special forces operations worldwide and under all conditions successfully. To do this, the KSK requires not only high mobility but also a variety of suitable modes of transport depending on the situation, mission, and terrain,” said KSK commander, Brig.-Gen. Andreas Kühne.

“With the TAHR, we are getting an operational and combat vehicle that is air-droppable and ready for deployment in any terrain. Together, we have succeeded in advancing this important armament project for the KSK in such a way that the first pre-series vehicle can be presented within just one year,” he added.

FTS signed a framework agreement in October 2025 with the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support, the German Army’s procurement authority, to supply up to 200 vehicles.

IAI’s leadership described the rollout as a milestone in the company’s cooperation with Germany.

“IAI views Germany as a strategic partner in developing joint defense capabilities over the long term. Our cooperation spans multiple domains, from air and maritime to land, and is grounded in the combination of technology, expertise, and industrial capabilities on both sides. We are committed to further deepening this cooperation and jointly developing solutions to address the evolving security challenges of the years ahead,” IAI CEO Guy Barlev said.

ELTA CEO Dror Bar noted that delivering the first vehicle ahead of schedule showed the effectiveness of the industrial collaboration and the ability to tailor proven Israeli platforms to German operational needs.

“We are proud to present the first TAHR vehicle ahead of schedule. This achievement reflects the strength of our industrial cooperation with our German partners and our ability to deliver advanced, proven platforms tailored precisely to the customer’s operational needs,” he said.

Europe has increasingly turned to Israeli defense technology over the past decade, especially after Russia invaded Ukraine and the growing demand for rapid, combat‑proven systems.