Special Forces Command (KSK) and Their Vehicles
The Special Forces Command (KSK) is an elite unit of the Bundeswehr, responsible for carrying out missions that go beyond standard military service. These missions include combat operations in small groups, reconnaissance, counter-terrorism, and rescue operations such as hostage rescue.
Vehicles for the KSK
The KSK requires specialized vehicles to carry out their missions effectively. One such vehicle currently being tested by the Bundeswehr and the military technical department is the “Reconnaissance and Combat Vehicle 2” (AGF 2). The AGF 2 is intended to replace the Serval, which has been in use since 2003.
Production and Variants
The AGF 2 will be produced by Defenture, a Dutch specialist in special forces vehicles. The Bundeswehr will purchase two variants of the “Mammoth” vehicle family:
* The AGF 2 (“Reconnaissance and combat vehicle”) as a mobility and fire support platform for commandos
* The UFK variant (“Special Forces Command Support Vehicle”) for the transport of materials, personnel, and ammunition, and for supplying command soldiers
Features of the AGF 2
The AGF 2 has several features that make it suitable for the KSK’s missions. These include:
* Camouflage lights with infrared light for night driving
* A motorized rotating ring mount for mounting various machine guns and grenade launchers
* A 20 mm machine cannon that can be attached to the vehicle
* A commander’s mount and a rear mount with an MG5
* An acoustic gunshot detection system (PILAR V) to detect and locate enemy fire
* A quick fog system for self-protection, which fires 40 mm smoke grenades to create a smoke screen
* Jammers to disrupt the sensors of incoming projectiles
* Mine protection
* The ability to be relocated via Airbus 400M
Procurement Plans
If the testing is successful, the Bundeswehr plans to purchase a maximum of 80 vehicles. The initial procurement will include 49 vehicles, consisting of 26 AGF 2, eight fire support vehicles with a 20mm automatic cannon, and 15 UFK variants.