Boxer Armored Fighting Vehicles: Germany’s Military Upgrade
Germany has set in motion plans to acquire Boxer armored fighting vehicles as part of an ambitious strategy to upgrade its military. This acquisition aims to bolster the capabilities of the newly established Medium Forces within the German Armed Forces. The procurement package consists of vehicles featuring the advanced 30-millimeter Remote Control Turret (RCT30), which was first introduced by top defense manufacturers Rheinmetall and KNDS Deutschland in 2016. According to the Heidenheim-based news outlet Hartpunkt, the projected budget for this acquisition amounts to 3.9 billion euros, roughly $4.5 billion, with an initial funding of 1.1 billion euros, or about $1.2 billion, earmarked for the initial phases of the program.
Although specifics regarding the exact number of Boxer vehicles to be ordered have not been disclosed, estimates suggest that Germany may look to procure up to 148 units. This move follows a separate deal involving 123 Boxers, which are being acquired based on Australia’s Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle configuration for the militaries’ Heavy Weapon Carrier Infantry. By enhancing this fleet, Germany aims to create a versatile and capable force.
Operational Goals of the Medium Forces
The introduction of the Medium Forces is designed to provide Germany with greater operational flexibility by addressing the mobility gap between light and heavy infantry. This strategic development seeks to cultivate a modern, agile unit capable of rapid response, thereby strengthening not only Germany’s military posture but also that of its allies in Eastern Europe and NATO’s multinational Response Force, specifically the Very High Readiness Joint Task Force.
The operational doctrine adopted by this formation draws inspiration from historical ‘Blitzkrieg’ tactics, characterized by swift and coordinated surprise attacks aimed at incapacitating enemy forces quickly. Central to the Medium Forces’ capabilities will be the RCT30 cannon, which will notably enhance the firepower of the Lance turret mounted on the Heavy Weapon Carrier Infantry’s Boxers, in addition to complementing other combat vehicles including the Puma, CV90, and Lynx.
Capabilities of the Boxer RCT30
The Boxer RCT30 exemplifies advanced military technology, presenting an 8×8 platform that spans 8 meters, or 26 feet, in length, and is designed to carry up to ten personnel. Its remote weapon station is equipped with Rheinmetall’s MK30-2/ABM air burst munition automatic cannon, which has an impressive firing rate of 200 rounds per minute and a reach of approximately 3,000 meters, or nearly 10,000 feet. Moreover, it offers options for counter-drone systems and coaxial machine guns, significantly enhancing its combat effectiveness.
Powering this formidable vehicle is a robust 816-horsepower MTU 8V199 TE21 diesel engine, allowing the Boxer RCT30 to achieve speeds exceeding 100 kilometers per hour, or 62 miles per hour, with an operational range of 1,000 kilometers, or 621 miles. This combination of speed, firepower, and operational versatility makes the Boxer a pivotal addition to Germany’s military modernization efforts.
