Rheinmetall from Germany Secures Major Australian Contract for 8x8 boxer

The contract marks Australia's largest military export to Germany, with over 100 vehicles to be manufactured locally by Rheinmetall Defence Australia and exported for use by the German Army.

Nathan Poyner, Managing Director of Rheinmetall Defence Australia, highlighted the importance of the deal, noting that production will begin in Australia with deliveries starting in 2025. The first Australian-built vehicle is expected to be delivered by 2026. The vehicles will be produced at Rheinmetall’s Military Vehicle Centre of Excellence in Redbank, Queensland, leveraging the capabilities of over 650 local workers.

This strategic export initiative is part of a broader effort to deepen defence ties between Australia and Germany, enhancing global security cooperation and expanding Australia’s defence industry footprint on the international stage.

The Boxer vehicle, formally known as the Schwerer Waffenträger Infanterie or Heavy Weapon Carrier, is based on the Australian Army's Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle (CRV). This advanced, armoured 8x8 vehicle is used by armies worldwide and is noted for its enhanced troop safety, high mobility, and considerable firepower, which make it suitable for a wide range of military operations from peacekeeping missions to high-intensity combat. The CRV includes a state-of-the-art two-person digital Lance turret, marking the first instance of a crewed medium-calibre turret used on the Boxer platform. The German Boxers, to be crafted in Queensland, symbolize a pivotal step in Rheinmetall's efforts to integrate Australian skill into its global supply chain, reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two nations in defence manufacturing.