Germany and the Netherlands have officially signed a €4.5 billion defense contract through the Organisation Conjointe de Coopération en Matière d’Armement (OCCAR) for the supply of 222 SCHAKAL infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs), substantially expanding their joint BOXER armored vehicle fleets .The signing ceremony held in Bonn on October 17, 2025, marked a milestone in European land combat modernization and symbolized growing cooperation among EU partners under NATO’s collective mobility initiatives .Under the arrangement, Artec GmbH —a joint venture between Rheinmetall and KNDS Germany— will supply 150 vehicles to the German Bundeswehr and 72 to the Royal Netherlands Army .Rheinmetall’s contract share approaches €3 billion and includes logistics packages, training resources, and advanced sensor and protection kits. The SCHAKAL (IFV) combines the mobility of the 8×8 BOXER chassis with the firepower of the PUMA RCT30 remote turret housing Rheinmetall’s MK30‑2/ABM 30 mm autocannon .It is designed for NATO’s medium forces, combining strategic mobility, armor protection, and lethality for rapid maneuver in high‑intensity combat. OCCAR’s latest award brings its total BOXER portfolio value to about €10 billion, reflecting Europe’s commitment to commonality and standardization .In addition to the SCHAKAL IFV, Germany will receive new Driver Training Vehicles and Ambulance variants fitted with upgraded C4I and visual systems, plus comprehensive medical uplifts for existing ambience fleets .Production runs between 2027 and 2031 will extend industrial workshare for both countries, reinforcing the Boxer program as Europe’s flagship armored mobility platform .Analysts highlight that the deal strengthens the German‑Dutch strategic corridor while bolstering NATO’s rapid‑reaction logistics, showcasing Europe’s capacity for collaborative procurement. It also signals Europe’s determination to reduce dependence on external suppliers by deepening continental industrial synergies. The SCHAKAL’s integration package includes drone defense modules and anti‑tank protection options. Its modular chassis will serve as a base for future Boxer variants like bridging or artillery systems, cementing its status as Europe’s standard multi‑role armor platform .Together, these orders reaffirm European readiness for the next era of networked ground warfare and collective defense.
