Feb212026

MEHLER SYSTEMS

Reliable protection

 

In our new feature on German hidden champions and family businesses, we would like to introduce the Mehler Systems Group: Mehler Systems is an innovative European market leader in ballistic protection systems and tactical equipment, which was awarded the TOP 100 seal in 2026. Compared to its competitors, the company scores highly thanks to its extensive vertical integration, including in-house textile and ballistics development and rigorous validation, its rapid adaptability to mission requirements, and its strategy-oriented investments in international production capacities. Headquartered in Fulda with several locations across Europe, the group designs and manufactures advanced protective gear that is used in over 40 countries.

Enforce Tac: Mehler erweitert Portfolio und stellt C-UAV System vor

Mehler Systems, formerly Mehler Vario System Group, is the European market leader in high-quality ballistic protection systems, tactical uniforms, and carrying gear for police, military, and special forces. The group brings together established brands such as Mehler Protection, Lindnerhof Taktik, and UF PRO to offer comprehensive solutions. The company’s growth is reflected in a high order intake, expanded capacities (e.g. new plant in Fulda), and investing in innovation. Its customers and main buyers include international security authorities and armed forces. Clear evidence of its strong market position is the large-scale MOBAST project, under which Mehler Protection is supplying over 300,000 body armor systems to the German Armed Forces.

Hidden champion

Mehler Systems has long been considered a “hidden champion” among German SMEs. Dr. Mario Amschlinger (CEO) wants to expand the manufacturer of body armour and other protective equipment – and prepare the police, the German Armed Forces, and European special forces for the conflicts of the future with new innovations.

“We serve those who risk their lives every day to make our lives safer.” ~ Dr. Mario Amschlinger, CEO Mehler Systems

Source: mehler-systems.com/…/interview-dr-mario-amschlinger-mehler-systems-prioritaeten-2026

 

Mehler Systems Among Germany’s TOP 100 Innovators

TOP100 innovation leadership

In February 2026, Mehler Systems was officially awarded the TOP 100 seal for outstanding innovative strength. Based in eastern Hesse, Mehler is now one of Germany’s most innovative medium-sized companies. The jury particularly praised:

“The innovation strategy is supported by structured research and development and is closely linked to the operational requirements of end users (military and police). The group’s technological leadership sets standards in the production of body armor and tactical clothing. Integrated solutions, from ballistic vests and modular carrying systems to high-quality operational clothing, drive innovation across all brands.”

“We are very proud to be among the TOP 100 innovators in Germany. This award recognizes the achievements of our entire team and our commitment to anticipating market developments years in advance as a first mover,” ~ Dr. Mario Amschlinger, CEO of Mehler Systems

Internationalization

The market for protective vests and personal protection systems is under increasing pressure. In an interview, Daniel von Chamier, Group Director Sales at Mehler Systems, explains how manufacturers need to respond to growing demand, more complex programs, and higher expectations for delivery capability.

“Saying yes to a customer is easy – delivering on that yes is what counts in the end,” said von Chamier, referring to a challenge that now characterizes the entire market for personal protective equipment.

Ballistische Schutzsysteme im Fokus – Mehler Systems und der Markt

System supplier to Bundeswehr

Mehler Systems plays an important role as a reliable, long-standing partner of the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) and is a central pillar of Germany’s defense capabilities. The partnership is characterized by several key factors:

  • Large-scale MOBAST project by Mehler Protection, the main contractor for the MOBAST system (modular ballistic protection and carrying equipment). By December 2024, 200,000 protective vest systems had already been delivered to the troops; the contract covers the delivery of over 300,000 units in total.
  • As an equipment supplier to the special forces, the company secured a significant follow-up order in March 2025 for specialized protective vests for the Special Forces Command (KSK).
  • Mehler has been providing protective solutions such as the classic Standard protective vest and the Infantry protective vest for decades and has established itself as a strategic core supplier through modified framework agreements.  

“… Bundeswehr will have the Armed Forces combat uniform, the MOBAST modular ballistic protection and carrying equipment for soldiers, and the modular backpack system as part of their personal equipment.” ~ Bundeswehr

Videos

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MEHLER SYSTEMS group

Further information

 

Categories: Engineering, Industrie, Innovation
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Author: Dr. Thomas Fabula

Thomas Fabula applies his profound experience in various functions for multinational corporations and medium-sized enterprises in different branches. As a former athlete his passion for sportive leadership enables him to motivate intercultural & cross-disciplinary teams in business environments to high-performance level.