KNDS Deutschland, a key player in the European defense industry, has been subcontracted by ARTEC GmbH to supply the BOXER RCT 30 wheeled infantry fighting vehicle to the German Army. ARTEC, the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) of the BOXER platform and a joint venture between KNDS Deutschland and Rheinmetall Landsysteme, serves as the primary contractor. The overarching framework for this major procurement was established by the German Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) and executed through the international procurement organization OCCAR (Organisation Conjointe de Coopération en Matière d’Armement).
This contract will see the Bundeswehr field a total of 150 systems, which it has designated under the name “Schakal.” In a parallel order, the Dutch armed forces will receive an additional 72 BOXER RCT 30 vehicles, highlighting the system’s multinational appeal. The production and delivery timeline is set for the first vehicles to be delivered to the troops starting in late 2027.
The BOXER RCT 30 is a formidable new asset, developed by KNDS to form the backbone of the German Army’s newly established “Medium Forces.” Its design represents a strategic fusion of proven technologies. It integrates the highly mobile and protected BOXER wheeled chassis, already in service with seven nations, with the mature and effective 30-millimeter automatic cannon turret from the PUMA infantry fighting vehicle. This powerful combination grants the “Schakal” a significant tactical advantage: the capability to engage moving targets with high accuracy while itself on the move.
The vehicle’s operational role is extensive. Its 30mm main armament enables it to conduct effective anti-drone and short-range anti-aircraft defense, protecting formations from aerial threats. Furthermore, with its integrated MELLS anti-tank system—a multi-role lightweight guided missile system—the BOXER RCT 30 possesses the lethality to successfully engage and destroy modern main battle tanks. With a capacity for six personnel, including its crew, the “Schakal” is designated as the primary weapon system for the Grenadiers within the Medium Forces, providing them with unprecedented firepower and mobility.
With the recent commitments from Germany and the Netherlands, the BOXER RCT 30 variant is now under contract in four nations, cementing its status as a key future platform for NATO and allied armies. This procurement strengthens the European defense industrial base and enhances the interoperability between partner nations.
