Rheinmetall has won an important order in the maritime protection systems domain. The Royal Australian Navy and the Commonwealth of Australia have ordered the Multi Ammunition Softkill System, or MASS, which will initially be used to equip its Hobart-class destroyers and ANZAC-class frigates. Following extensive trials, MASS was selected on account of its unique capabilities. For Rheinmetall, the order represents €125 million in sales. The first systems are to be delivered by the end of 2023, with full operational capability achieved by 2027. This is the Group’s single-biggest order ever for ship protection technology. Total sales volume could potentially come to A$1 billion (approx. €610 million), as the contract includes an option for equipping Australia’s entire fleet.  

Because the contract includes the transfer of MASS technology, Rheinmetall Defence Australia will be able to produce the systems under licence, before installing and commissioning them onboard Australia’s seagoing surface combatants. The Multi Ammunition Softkill System (MASS) protects ships and boats from multifaceted threats from anti-ship guided missiles and laser-guided weapons – on the high seas, in littoral waters and on rivers.