KNDS Deutschland (KNDS) announced its subcontract with ARTEC (producer of the BOXER system and joint venture between KNDS Deutschland and Rheinmetall Landsysteme) for the supply of BOXER RCT 30 wheeled infantry combat vehicles to the German Army (Deutsches Heer or simply Heer).
ARTEC had previously signed a contract with the procurement organisation OCCAR (Organisation Conjointe de Coopération en Matière d’Armement) for a total of 222 BOXER RCT 30 vehicles.
The basis for the supply contract was set by the BAAINBw (Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support of the Bundeswehr) and OCCAR itself.
The Program for Germany and the Netherlands
The Bundeswehr will deploy a total of 150 BOXER RCT 30 systems that will be named ‘Schakal.’
The Dutch Armed Forces, particularly the Royal Netherlands Army, will receive another 72 BOXER RCT 30s; the first RCT 30 wheeled infantry combat vehicles will reach the Dutch Defense by the end of 2027.
Features of the BOXER RCT 30
Developed by KNDS, the BOXER RCT 30 will form the backbone of the new ‘Medium Forces.’ The combination of the proven BOXER, already deployed in seven nations, and the proven 30-millimetre turret of the PUMA infantry combat vehicle allows the ‘Schakal’ to engage moving targets while on the move.
The new wheeled infantry combat vehicle is also capable of countering drones and aircraft. Thanks to the integrated MELLS anti-tank system (multi-purpose lightweight guided missile system, the German version of the Spike LR from Rafael Advanced Defense Systems), the BOXER RCT 30 can successfully engage tanks.
With a transport capacity of a six-man team, the Schakal will be the main weapon system of the Grenadiers of the ‘Medium’ Brigades being organized by the Heer.
With the new user countries Germany and the Netherlands, the BOXER RCT 30 is now contracted in four nations.
Source and photo credit @KNDS Deutschland (KNDS)
