Germany’s EuroPULS rocket artillery launcher system has successfully fired new training rockets made under a partnership between Diehl Defence and Elbit Systems Land.
Designated MARS 3 by the German Armed Forces, the EuroPULS conducted a live firing of 122mm training rockets “several times” at the Altengrabow military training area in northeastern Germany.
The ammunition, based on existing components that meet current requirements and integrated into the MARS 3, stemmed from a collaboration between German-based Diehl Defence and Israeli defense company Elbit Systems Land that began in September 2024.
The milestone event also marked the beginning of Diehl’s reconstruction of artillery rocket production.
“It confirms the full compatibility between our training rockets and the launcher system and at the same time opens up new paths for artillery technology manufactured in Germany,” said Gunnar Pappert, Senior VP Land Systems at Diehl Defence.
Training Rockets
The 122mm training rocket features a spotting charge warhead — a small explosive that marks the hit — that uses a new propellant charge from Diehl Defence.
On impact, it creates a bang, flash, and smoke so trainees can see and hear exactly where it lands. It does not create fire hazards, making it safe for training grounds with dry grass or vegetation.
The rocket’s aerodynamic design was confirmed with early tests in Israel in 2025, pre-firings in February 2026, and the Altengrabow test in March.
EuroPULS
EuroPULS is a wheeled, truck-mounted launcher compatible with various ammunition.
It is based on Elbit’s proven PULS design but customized for Europe with local production following a teaming agreement between KNDS and Elbit in 2023.
In March, Germany was reportedly preparing a major procurement of about 500 MARS 3 launchers, while KNDS and Elbit agreed to launch a joint venture to market the EuroPULS to European militaries, responding to the need for sovereign artillery capabilities.
