Germany has announced plans to acquire Boxer armored fighting vehicles as part of its strategy to enhance the capabilities of its newly established Medium Forces. This procurement includes vehicles equipped with the 30-millimeter Remote Control turret (RCT30) variants, which were initially showcased by German defense contractors Rheinmetall and KNDS Deutschland in 2016.
According to reports from Hartpunkt, a news outlet based in Heidenheim, the draft budget for this future acquisition is set at 3.9 billion euros (approximately $4.5 billion), with 1.1 billion euros ($1.2 billion) earmarked for the initial phases of the project. While the specific number of Boxer vehicles to be ordered has not been disclosed, sources indicate that the initiative could involve acquiring up to 148 platforms.
This procurement is part of a broader effort to complement the 123 Boxers being procured under a separate contract, which are based on Australia’s Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle (CRV) configuration for the German military’s Heavy Weapon Carrier Infantry.
The Medium Forces initiative aims to bridge the mobility gap between light and heavy infantry units, creating a modern and agile force for the German Armed Forces, as well as for partners in Eastern Europe and NATO’s multinational Response Force Very High Readiness Joint Task Force. This formation is modeled after historical “Blitzkrieg” operations, emphasizing coordinated, surprise tactics that incorporate concentrated firepower to quickly incapacitate opposing forces.
At the core of the Medium Forces’ operational capabilities is the RCT30 cannon. This system will enhance the effectiveness of the Lance turret used on the Heavy Weapon Carrier Infantry’s Boxers and can also be integrated into other combat vehicles, including the Puma, CV90, and Lynx.
The incoming Boxer RCT30 is an advanced 8×8 system, measuring 8 meters (approximately 26 feet) in length and capable of transporting up to 10 personnel. Its remote weapon station is equipped with Rheinmetall’s MK30-2/ABM air burst munition automatic cannon, capable of firing 200 rounds per minute and engaging targets at distances up to 3,000 meters (about 9,844 feet). Additionally, the vehicle can be outfitted with counter-drone and coaxial machine guns to enhance its defensive capabilities.
Powered by an 816-horsepower MTU 8V199 TE21 diesel engine, the Boxer RCT30 can achieve speeds exceeding 100 kilometers (62 miles) per hour and maintain an operational range of 1,000 kilometers (621 miles). This acquisition marks a significant step in bolstering Germany’s military capabilities in the current geopolitical landscape.
