Mercedes-Benz to build G-Class and Sprinter anti-drone vehicles

Mercedes-Benz signed a memorandum of understanding with German startup Tytan Technologies at ILA 2026 to produce G-Class and Sprinter-based vehicles that will carry mobile air-defence systems aimed at small drones. Mercedes-Benz said the work will focus on “vehicle-based drone defense and mission platforms for the protection of people and critical infrastructure.”

The MoU, announced at the International Aerospace Exhibition on Wednesday, covers manufacture of vehicle platforms to integrate Tytan’s mobile air-defence equipment. Mercedes-Benz has not released a production timetable or financial details of the agreement.

The collaboration expands Mercedes-Benz’s manufacturing activity into defence applications. Other European automakers have pursued defence-related partnerships: Renault has been developing a ground-based drone and has a deal with Turgis Gaillard to manufacture aerial drones, while Volkswagen signed a letter of intent with Israeli defence firm Rafael to produce components for missile-defence systems.

European defence spending and industrial activity have increased since Russia’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, prompting efforts to boost domestic production of military equipment and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. Observers note that many technical skills used in vehicle production-systems integration, chassis design and high-volume assembly-are transferable to defence platforms.

Germany’s Ministry of Defence has established a matchmaking platform to connect established defence firms with start-ups and companies from the civilian sector. A ministry spokesperson described the platform as “bringing established defense companies together with start-ups and companies from the civilian sector” to encourage collaboration.

Automakers have previously redirected civilian production to military manufacturing during crises: in World War II, manufacturers retooled factories to produce military vehicles, engines and munitions.

Shares of Mercedes-Benz Group AG traded at about €47.11 on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. The stock is down more than 20% since the start of the year and about 9.6% lower than a year ago.