RHEIMETALL

The HX3 – Rheinmetall's latest generation of the tried-and-tested HX series

The new generation of the tried-and-tested HX series marks the transition to a future-proof military truck that meets military and automotive megatrends thanks to the latest technologies. Redesigned from the ground up, users can expect improved protection, further increased mobility, maximum driving comfort and a digital interface architecture for an even more flexible range of applications and future performance enhancements. At the same time, the proven core strengths of the HX2 and the family concept have been retained. 

With the experience of over 16,000 HX vehicles in use worldwide, the design of the HX3 has one crucial thing in common with its predecessors: it is ahead of the competition. To make the best even better, we spoke to the people who rely on the HX day in, day out, even in extreme situations. We listened and combined our findings in the HX3.

The versatile model range and the wide spectrum of available systems make the HX3 the ideal choice for future-oriented tactical requirements. In addition to its use as a logistics vehicle with new systems such as the ALHS (Automated Load Handling System), the HX3 now offers improved performance as a system carrier. This versatility will be particularly important as carrier vehicles for complex radar and weapon systems, such as truck-mounted artillery systems, will become increasingly important in the coming years.

The HX3’s completely overhauled cab design delivers even greater ease of operation and crew protection, while various assistance systems assure enhanced safety during routine operations. Completely reworked, the electronic and electrical architecture and assistance systems – including Emergency Brake Assist/EBA, Adaptive Cruise Control/ACC and Lane Departure Warning/LDW – ensure the vehicle’s future viability, especially when it comes to autonomous driving. Standardized interfaces will make it possible to integrate future technologies such as truck platooning and other automated applications. Along with a robust chassis and high-performance engine, the vehicles can be equipped with an optional new active rear axle suspension system, which significantly enhances the vehicle’s performance both on and off-road.

More than ever, the new HX3 generation embodies a platform concept equally suited to logistic and tactical scenarios. The HX3 will basically be available in 4x4, 6x6, 8x8 and 10x10 versions, and characterised by an even wider array of variants and greater system diversity. Moreover, its traditional role as a logistics vehicle can be further enhanced thanks to new systems such as the fully automatic Automated Load Handling System, or ALHS, which can load both containers as well as flat racks.

Compared to other wheeled platforms, which are already hitting their weight and payload limits, using the HX 10x10 offers the advantage of the unused growth potential of circa 5 tonnes of additional load capacity. Given an assumed service life of 30-40 years, this additional payload could be used to incorporate a multitude of additional mission systems as well as for carrying extra ammunition. Moreover, because the howitzer was designed from the start for remote control and semi or fully-automatic operation, it can function without a crew. In keeping with the “human in the loop” principle, however, the fire order is never an autonomous decision.

When it comes to procurement and utilization, the howitzer offers an excellent price-performance ratio compared to traditional tracked self-propelled howitzers as well as other wheeled tactical vehicle-based systems, while at the same time substantially enhancing a core capability intrinsic to all howitzers: achieving favourable outcomes through range superiority. Thanks to the high-mobility HX 10x10 truck chassis, the artillery system can flexibly redeploy over large distances without additional logistic support, and with no need for routine maintenance or repairs upon arrival. Furthermore, logistic uniformity owing to the extensive use of HX trucks in the Bundeswehr, the British Army and numerous other armed forces will result in lower lifecycle costs, while simultaneously facilitating multinational operations, thus strengthening national and alliance defence capabilities.

The HX3 sets new safety standards for military vehicles and offers decisive advantages on public roads and during complicated maneuvering and loading/unloading activities.

The new protected cab of the HX3 offers excellent visibility thanks to larger windshields and side windows. It also provides better ergonomics and more usable space thanks to more spacious storage compartments and additional holders for C4I and personal equipment.

The robust chassis and powerful engines for military use ensure that the HX3 can perform even in the roughest terrain.

The HX3 is equipped with life-saving functions and offers a flexible, modular protection concept.

The completely redesigned electric-electronic architecture makes the vehicle future-proof and forms a crucial basis for the automation and integration of future technologies for automated and autonomous deployment scenarios.

The HX3's driver assistance systems help to keep soldiers alert and increase road safety by providing support in inattentive moments.

With a range of models from 4x4 to 10x10, the HX3 is ideally suited as a system carrier for a wide variety of body variants.

Autonews