Australian Army successfully tested Boxer Block II Reconnaissance Vehicle during Talisman Sabre 2023.

During the military exercise Talisman Sabre 2023 that was held from July 22 to August 4, 2023, the Australian army tested the new Boxer Block II Reconnaissance armored vehicle which has been built and assembled in Australia.
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The new Boxer Block II Reconnaissance Armored Vehicle for the Australian Army. (Picture source Australian MoD)

In March 2018 it was announced that Rheinmetall Defense Australia (RDA) had been selected as the preferred tenderer for that project which at the time called for 211 Boxer 8x8 armored vehicles, with a roll-out of initial vehicles by 2021 and deliveries scheduled to be complete by 2026.

This is a significant Army capability that will enhance the safety, security and protection of Australian troops for the next 30 years. The Boxer CRV will replace the Australian Light Armoured Vehicle (ASLAV), which has seen extensive operational service since its introduction in 1996.

Rheinmetall Defence Australia has delivered the first 25 Boxer CRVs (known as Block I vehicles) to Australian Defence. The Block I vehicles were built and assembled primarily in Germany and underwent final integration and acceptance testing in Australia.

With a deliberate period of transition, the remaining Boxer CRVs (known as Block II vehicles) will be built and assembled in Australia, under a gradual ramp down in Germany and ramp up in Australia. This will enable progressive technology transfer of the manufacturing techniques and assembly line processes to Australia during this period.

The Australian army reconnaissance version of the Boxer is equipped with a German-made two-man Lance turret armed with one 30mm automatic cannon as well as Spike LR2 Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) weapon system.

The Boxer Block II for the Australian army is equipped with a new redesigned turret equipped with 2 Spike LR2 anti-tank missiles. In terms of protection, the vehicle is also fitted with the Iron Fist APS (Active Protection System) designed and developed by the Israeli Company Elbit Systems.

The Boxer is a multirole armored fighting vehicle designed and produced by a European consortium, ARTEC GmbH. It was developed to meet the demands of the modern battlefield, offering modularity, protection, and mobility. One of Boxer's unique features is its modular design. The vehicle comprises two main parts: the platform/drive module and the mission module. The latter can be easily swapped out to transform the Boxer's role – from an armored personnel carrier (APC) to an ambulance, command vehicle, cargo carrier, or more.

Boxer provides a high level of protection against mines, IEDs, and ballistic threats. The vehicle's design emphasizes crew protection, and additional armor can be added based on mission requirements.

The Boxer is based on an 8x8 wheel configuration and has a powerful engine, allowing it to reach a road speed of up to 103 km/h on roads. Its robust suspension and drivetrain enable it to traverse challenging terrains with ease.

Defense News August 2023