The Franco-German defence group KNDS has revealed record financial results for 2024, achieving its second consecutive year of all-time high results. The company reported an order intake of EUR 11.2 billion, reflecting an increase of over 40% from the prior year.
KNDS stated that this was primarily driven by both national and international programmes, including the Leopard 2 A8, Serval for France, the RCH 155 howitzer system for Ukraine, Caesar exports, Boxer for Lithuania, and various Scorpion vehicles. Additionally, there was a notable increase in orders for ammunition and support services.
By the end of 2024, KNDS reported an order backlog of EUR 23.5 billion, reflecting a 15 percent rise compared to 2023. The robust momentum in Europe persists, attributed to the KNDS Group’s capacity to deliver customized solutions to its clients, especially through the synergistic “Weapons & Ammunition” combination, which leverages the complementary aspects of the Franco-German offerings.
In 2024, KNDS reported a sales increase to EUR 3.8 billion. This robust organic growth was driven by contributions from all business units within the Group, resulting in satisfactory profitability that met industry standards. Key factors included the delivery of Leopard 2 Main Battle Tanks, as well as the wheeled vehicles Griffon, Serval, and Jaguar from the Scorpion programme, along with the Boxer System to international clients. Additionally, the Leclerc upgrade programme and ammunition deliveries played a role in enhancing these results.
With nearly 1,000 new employees onboard in 2024, KNDS’ workforce has surpassed 10,000 and is projected to reach 11,000 by 2025.
Looking ahead to 2025, the Group intends to play a significant role in enhancing the interoperable capabilities of European armies by bolstering its industrial presence in Europe and fostering further industrial collaboration with partners in Europe and Ukraine.
