Germany and the Netherlands are expanding their Boxer RCT30 fleets after ARTEC, a joint venture of KNDS Deutschland and Rheinmetall, secured an order for 69 more infantry fighting vehicles. The agreement was arranged through the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation and builds on a combined procurement of 222 vehicles in 2025.
Of the new vehicles, Germany will receive 35, adding to its earlier order for 150 Boxer RCT30s. The Netherlands will obtain the other 34, bringing its total number of wheeled infantry fighting vehicles to 106.
The RCT30 is central to Germany’s plans for its new Medium Forces. The concept focuses on fast-moving, wheeled combat formations intended to fill the operational space between heavy armoured units and light infantry.
The vehicle uses the established Boxer chassis together with a 30 mm turret developed for the Puma infantry fighting vehicle. This combination provides the RCT30 with the ability to attack moving targets while on the move. Germany calls its version the Schakal.
Beyond conventional ground combat, the Schakal is designed to address aerial threats such as drones and aircraft. It also carries the MELLS anti-tank guided missile system, allowing it to threaten heavily armoured vehicles, including main battle tanks. Six infantry personnel can dismount from the vehicle, making it an important platform for mechanised infantry within Germany’s Medium Forces.
