15/06/2026 | Press release

Rheinmetall is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of medium-caliber weapon systems and ammunition in the 20 mm to 35 mm caliber range. In doing so, Rheinmetall carries on the legacy of two highly respected, long-established companies: Oerlikon and Mauser. Building on this tradition, Rheinmetall develops and manufactures automatic cannons with exceptional firepower, precision, and reliability. At Eurosatory 2026, Rheinmetall will showcase new medium-caliber weapon systems and capabilities for the battlefields of the future.

Rheinmetall’s 35mm MK35-E automatic cannon is based on the weapon originally developed under the
name Wotan35. The externally powered 35mm x 228 machine gun offers a range of up to 3,000 meters and an adjustable rate of fire of 90–200 rounds per minute. It can fire single shots, bursts, and rapid single shots. It is also capable of airburst ammunition. This makes it suitable for engaging a wide range of targets—from light combat vehicles to infantry targets behind cover, as well as drones and other aerial targets. The dual-belt feeder allows two different types of ammunition to be used simultaneously.

The weapon is not subject to U.S. ITAR export regulations. It thus offers an alternative for users of 35mm systems seeking a European solution as standard armament for their infantry fighting vehicles or other platforms. Rheinmetall has already integrated and tested the MK35-E in a CV9035 infantry fighting vehicle on
a trial basis. During these tests, a total of several thousand rounds were successfully fired.

Another new product at Eurosatory is the lightweight cradle for Rheinmetall’s proven MK30-2/ABM machine gun. The lightweight cradle is available as an accessory. It enables a wide range of users or turret manufacturers to integrate the MK30-2/ABM into their systems using the “plug-and-play” principle.

The MK30-2/ABM is a gas-operated, direct-fire machine cannon in 30mm x 173 caliber and features a double-belt feeder. The rate of fire for the Puma and Lancet turrets is up to 200 rounds
per minute. Upon request, a rate of
600 rounds per minute is also
possible—for example, for drone
defense. It serves as the standard
armament in the Puma infantry fighting vehicle, the Schakal wheeled infantry fighting vehicle, the Boxer infantry heavy weapons carrier/combat reconaissance vehicle, and the Lynx infantry fighting vehicle. Over 1,200 of these weapons are now in service worldwide. The MK30/2 ABM is among the most precise weapons of its kind. It also has the capability to fire airburst ammunition, enabling it to engage a wide range of targets.
At Eurosatory 2026, a Counter-Unmanned Aerial System kit will be on display on the Lance turret of a Lynx KF41 reconnaissance vehicle. This enables the crew to defend against small drones. This capability has already been demonstrated in tests.
All Rheinmetall medium-caliber systems are designed to maintain their firepower, precision, and reliability even under extreme environmental conditions. They feature an excellent power-to-weight ratio, compact design, long service life, and low recoil forces. These and other factors make them ideally suited for use on land and at sea.
We look forward to seeing you at our booth F115/F116.