Boxer ‘s unique modular design, which combines a common drive module with interchangeable mission modules, provides unparalleled strategic and tactical flexibility. This milestone is an opportunity to reflect on the programme’s achievements and look forward to its future developments as a cornerstone of multinational defence cooperation.
The Boxer Programme’s origins trace back to the 1990s, with Germany, France, and the UK shaping the platform’s early phases. It was designed to address diverse operational scenarios while meeting mobility, protection, and load-bearing requirements. The programme officially became part of OCCAR on 10 December 1999, with the Boxer Development Contract signed soon after.
Following initial development, the first production contract was signed in 2006, delivering 605 vehicles to Germany and the Netherlands in various configurations, including infantry carriers, ambulances, and engineering vehicles. Operational use in Afghanistan between 2011 and 2014 provided valuable insights that informed design improvements.
Lithuania joined the programme in 2016, ordering 91 Boxer vehicles, with deliveries starting in 2019. The same year, Australia became an observer nation, fostering information exchange, and the UK re-joined the programme, ordering 628 vehicles across multiple variants. This expanded the programme’s reach, spurred innovation, and led to the establishment of new production facilities in the UK.
As production ramps up across five facilities in Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK, the Boxer Programme continues to evolve. The latest advancements include the most modern Drive Module and additional vehicle configurations tailored to emerging defence needs.
The BOXER Programme Division within OCCAR, comprising 31 multinational experts, collaborates closely with ARTEC GmbH, the prime contractor, and a broad network of industry specialists. This cooperation has been vital for the programme’s success, enabling knowledge sharing and fostering best practices across participating nations.
With over 1,300 vehicles delivered and contracts valued at over €6.2 billion, the Boxer’s adaptability and modularity have ensured its relevance and effectiveness. The platform undergoes continuous updates to incorporate cutting-edge technology and meet changing defence requirements.
Recent developments underscore the programme’s momentum, with Lithuania ordering an additional 27 vehicles, including a new engineering variant, in October 2024. Plans for further upgrades and new variants, such as bridge layers, armoured mortars, and electronic warfare vehicles, are also in progress across participating nations.
Source: OCCAR.
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