Germany and the Netherlands are poised to significantly strengthen their armed forces with hundreds of new Jackal infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs), according to a recent announcement. Europe’s Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) has contracted ARTEC, a joint venture between Rheinmetall and the French-German KNDS partnership, to deliver these Boxer-based platforms under a €3.4 billion ($4 billion) agreement, Breaking Defense reports.
Division of Orders
The procurement involves 150 Jackal units for the German armed forces and 72 for the Dutch military. Rheinmetall, a co-producer of the wheeled land vehicle, will earn „almost €3 billion” from the deal. The contract also includes a „call off” option for up to 248 additional units.
Jackal Features
The Jackal combines the 8×8 Boxer platform with the 30mm Puma turret, fitted with Rheinmetall’s MK 30-2/ABM machine gun. Rheinmetall stated that the contract includes optional additional services, ranging from enhanced anti-tank protection to drone defense capabilities.
Enhanced Capabilities
OCCAR described the Jackal as a „highly capable IFV that offers enhanced lethality, survivability, and tactical flexibility.” The agency also noted ongoing vehicle deliveries and future developments and investments for new Boxer variants and capabilities that are already under active planning.
OCCAR manages the Boxer program and acts on behalf of Germany, the Netherlands, Lithuania, and the UK.
