Dutch 13th Light Brigade to receive Boxer RCT30 infantry fighting vehicles.

On September 17, 2024, the Dutch 13th Light Brigade announced that its two infantry battalions would be reinforced with Boxer RCT30 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs). This decision followed the King's Speech ("Troonrede") earlier that day, which indicated the necessity for increased attention and funding for the Ministry of Defense. Part of these additional defense expenditures includes enhancing the capabilities of the 13th Light Brigade.
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The Boxer RCT30 is a wheeled armored vehicle that features the remotely controlled RCT30 turret from the Puma SPz, combining firepower, mobility, and protection levels intended to meet the requirements of high-intensity conflicts. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

Developed by the ARTEC consortium (a collaboration between Rheinmetall and Krauss-Maffei Wegmann), the Boxer 8x8 armored vehicle originated from a 1990s initiative to create a next-generation multi-role vehicle for European armies. Entering service in the 2010s, the vehicle features a standardized drive module and mission-specific modules that can be exchanged quickly. This modular design supports roles such as infantry transport, medical evacuation, command and control, and combat engineering. The Boxer includes features like mobility capabilities, comprehensive protection systems, 360-degree threat detection, and nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) protection.

The Boxer RCT30, also known as the PuBo (Puma Boxer), is an IFV variant based on the Boxer GTK platform. It incorporates the Puma IFV's remotely controlled RCT30 turret and is armed with a stabilized MK30-2/30mm automatic cannon. This weapon system can engage targets at distances up to 3,000 meters, both stationary and on the move, with a firing rate of 200 rounds per minute. The vehicle also includes a coaxial machine gun (either an MG4 in 5.56×45mm NATO caliber or an optional HK MG5 in 7.62×51mm) and has the capability to launch SPIKE LR anti-tank guided missiles while moving.

Entering service in the 2010s, the Boxer 8x8 armored vehicle originated from a 1990s initiative to create a next-generation multi-role vehicle for European armies. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

Powered by an MTU 8V199 TE21 engine producing up to 815 horsepower, the Boxer RCT30 can reach speeds exceeding 100 km/h on roads and has a range of over 700 km. It is capable of handling steep gradients and obstacles such as trenches and steps. With a turning radius of 21 meters (or 15 meters when using skid steering) the vehicle offers maneuverability in confined spaces. Weighing 38.5 tons and measuring 8.12 meters in length, 2.99 meters in width, and 3.63 meters in height, the Boxer RCT30 provides a protected internal volume of 14 cubic meters, including a headroom of 1.35 meters in the mission module.

The vehicle accommodates a crew of three (a driver, commander, and gunner) and can transport up to six additional soldiers. Its protection systems include the MUSS soft-kill self-protection system equipped with 76 mm grenade launchers. Additionally, the Boxer RCT30 is fitted with radio frequency sensors capable of detecting, classifying, and localizing radio-controlled drones, enhancing situational awareness and self-defense capabilities.

The Boxer RCT30, also known as the PuBo (Puma Boxer), is designed to accommodate a crew of three (a driver, commander, and gunner) while providing space to transport up to six additional soldiers, thanks to its internal volume of 14 cubic meters. (Picture source: Army Recognition)