Innovation Initiative for Defense & Security: Magirus develops Mobile Antenna Mast Systems

Around six months after the acquisition of Achleitner Fahrzeugbau GmbH, Magirus is launching the development of mobile antenna mast systems for security- and defense-related applications. The systems are intended above all for use wherever communications, reconnaissance or command infrastructure needs to be made available quickly, flexibly and reliably.

Current demand in this area significantly exceeds the capacities available on the market. Magirus therefore sees an opportunity to transfer its technological capabilities in a targeted way to an adjacent field of application. As one of the world’s leading manufacturers of turntable ladders and aerial rescue systems, Magirus draws on more than a century of experience with proven technology, a high level of systems competence and extensive expertise in the development of mobile solutions with working heights of up to 68 metres.

Building on this, Magirus is now developing mobile antenna mast systems with heights of up to 100 metres. The focus is on rapid deployment, robustness in operation, high mobility and integration on suitable vehicle platforms with short lead times.

International strategy with initial customer discussions

Magirus has already held initial talks with potential customers. The feedback confirms the demand for powerful, mobile solutions that can be made available at short notice in this segment. The market for mobile antenna mast systems is a specialised niche with only a few established suppliers. At the same time, the need for robust, rapidly deployable and highly mobile solutions in the security- and defense-related environment is growing significantly.

“With Magirus Defense & Security we are systematically expanding our capabilities. Mobile antenna mast systems are a logical next step in transferring our experience with robust, mission-critical specialist vehicles to new applications,” says Aron Literski, Head of Defense & Security at Magirus.

One point of reference is the Bundeswehr’s TaWAN programme (“Tactical Wide Area Network for Land-based Operations”). It underlines the growing importance of resilient communications networks between tactical units and rear command structures. Mobile antenna and microwave radio systems play a central role in ensuring range, data transmission and command capability even under demanding operational conditions.

Established structures in Ulm and Radfeld

The development work will build on the existing competencies at the Ulm and Radfeld sites. While Magirus in Ulm, Germany, has extensive experience in the development and production of turntable ladders, aerial rescue systems and fire-fighting vehicles, the Radfeld site in Austria – with the former Achleitner Fahrzeugbau GmbH – contributes many years of expertise in protected and highly specialised vehicles.

By combining these areas of competence, Magirus aims to further strengthen its position in the defense and security environment and to open up new applications in the specialist vehicle segment.

Specialist vehicle competence to be further expanded

In parallel, Magirus is examining further market potential in the field of protected vehicles up to 18 tonnes gross vehicle weight. The company is open to strategic partnerships, whilst also serving customers in the specialist vehicle sector directly.

With the planned expansion of its portfolio, Magirus underlines its ambition to continue developing its technological base and to contribute to strengthening security-relevant capabilities in Europe and international markets.