The Boxer, an 8×8 all-terrain, heavily armoured utility vehicle, was a key feature of the event. Renowned for its modular design, the Boxer incorporates a common drive module with an exchangeable mission module, giving it unmatched flexibility in military operations. This design ensures maximum mobility across a variety of scenarios, from high-intensity conflict to peacekeeping and humanitarian operations, offering superior capabilities and protection compared to other vehicles in its class.
Multiple variants of the Boxer, including command, infantry, and specialist carrier models, were showcased at DVD 2024. Attendees also witnessed a live demonstration of the vehicle’s capabilities around the UTAC test track. With the British Army considering the Boxer as a vital element of its future land combat strategy, the vehicle is expected to play a key role in modernising and diversifying the Army’s fleet.
Alexandra Alonzi, Programme Manager for the Boxer at OCCAR (Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation), delivered a presentation alongside representatives from the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) and the British Army. She emphasised the collaborative nature of the Boxer Programme, noting that international cooperation through OCCAR and its partners has allowed for the rapid and effective development of the vehicle. Currently, the programme supports the German, Netherlands, Lithuanian, and UK armies by providing next-generation all-terrain vehicles that balance transport capacity, mobility, protection, survivability, and efficient life-cycle costs.
To date, over 1,300 Boxer vehicles have been contracted through OCCAR with ARTEC GmbH, a joint venture of KNDS Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG, Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH, and Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V. The programme began in 2006 with contracts for Germany and the Netherlands. Since then, 605 vehicles across nine variants have been delivered to these nations. Lithuania joined the programme in 2016, procuring 91 Boxer vehicles in five variants, with final deliveries completed in early 2024.
The UK became part of the Boxer Programme in 2019, with plans to receive 623 vehicles in four variants. As of 2024, series production has ramped up, with prototypes enabling customer trials. The UK contract also facilitated the opening of two new Boxer production facilities in the country, further strengthening the programme’s supply chain. Additionally, Australia has joined the programme as an observer, promoting knowledge-sharing and cooperation among Boxer user nations.
Looking ahead, OCCAR is working closely with its partner nations to procure and deliver additional Boxer vehicles in both existing and newly advanced variants. This effort aims to ensure that the Boxer capability continues to evolve, supporting critical defence outcomes while adapting to the changing global security environment.