Germany, Netherlands add 69 Boxer RCT30 infantry fighting vehicles

ARTEC, a joint venture of KNDS Deutschland and Rheinmetall, has been commissioned by the defence procurement agency OCCAR to deliver 69 additional Boxer RCT30 wheeled infantry fighting vehicles for the German Bundeswehr and the Royal Netherlands Army. The order exercises an option under the 2025 contract for 222 systems, giving Germany 35 more vehicles (raising its fleet to 185) and the Netherlands 34 more (bringing its total to 106).

The Boxer RCT30, designated “Schakal” by the Bundeswehr, combines the proven Boxer chassis with a 30 mm turret derived from the PUMA IFV and is equipped with the MELLS anti‑tank guided‑missile system. It can engage drones, aircraft and main‑battle tanks, and carries a six‑soldier dismount. The vehicles form the backbone of the new “Medium Forces” concept, enhancing interoperability between the two armies. CEO Florian Hohenwarter highlighted the programme as a showcase of European defence cooperation and the benefits of joint procurement for faster delivery and logistics.

The procurement expands the Boxer RCT30 user base to four nations, reinforcing joint European capabilities.