German company RENK Test System (RTS) has secured a major contract to supply a new suite of advanced test machines for the Royal Netherlands Army’s ground vehicles.
Signed with the Dutch Army Maintenance and Logistics Command, the deal covers a full vehicle drive train test rig rated at 1,500 kilowatts and three engine test rigs with power classes of 1,500, 700, and 350 kilowatts.
The systems will support sustainment, repair, and overhaul of the service’s tracked and wheeled platforms, including the Leopard 2 main battle tank and supporting light tactical vehicles.
The equipment will be installed at the new Technology Center Land, a dedicated logistics command center under construction for the Dutch Army.
The site will replace older buildings and consolidate the test benches with workshops and other technical infrastructure.
RTS’ responsibilities cover the test systems and associated building equipment.
To support local integration and construction, RTS is partnering with Bunschoten-based Van Halteren Technologies, which will act as subcontractor for on-site work.
RTS did not disclose the contract value but confirmed it falls within the double-digit million-euro range.
Currently, the Netherlands leases about 18 Leopard 2A7 tanks from Germany for training and is engaged in a contract for 46 new 2A8 variants of the platform, scheduled for deliveries between 2028 to 2031.
‘Decisive Contribution’
RTS Managing Director Mathias Karrer said the award reinforces the company’s position in the market for specialized test equipment.
It also aligns with Amsterdam’s broader defense investment plans, which include a proposed increase in the national defense budget to 26.8 billion euros ($31.4 billion) for fiscal 2026, building on a planned annual budget of 24 billion euros ($28.1 billion) starting this year.
“We are proud that the Royal Netherlands Army has entrusted RENK with this critical project,” Karrer said.
“This order highlights our technological leadership in the field of customized test systems. By delivering this capability, we are making a decisive contribution to the operational readiness, reliability, and longevity of the Dutch Army’s ground-based vehicle fleet.”
