European Defence Alliance Expands with 222 Schakal IFVs for Germany and the Netherlands, Strengthening Medium Force Capabilities

European Defence Alliance Expands with 222 Schakal IFVs for Germany and the Netherlands, Strengthening Medium Force Capabilities

(IN BRIEF) OCCAR has commissioned Artec GmbH, a joint venture between Rheinmetall and KNDS Germany, to deliver 222 Schakal (Jackal) infantry fighting vehicles to Germany and the Netherlands under a €3.41 billion contract. Rheinmetall’s share amounts to nearly €3 billion. The new vehicle integrates the Boxer 8×8 chassis with the Puma turret featuring the MK 30-2/ABM cannon, providing high mobility, protection, and firepower. Deliveries will include 150 units for Germany and 72 for the Netherlands, along with logistical support, optional defence systems, and the potential for 248 additional vehicles. The Schakal will become the main weapon system for Germany’s medium forces and marks a significant step in European defence cooperation and capability development.

(PRESS RELEASE) DÜSSELDORF, 20-Oct-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — The European defence organisation OCCAR (Organisation Conjointe de Coopération en Matière d’Armement) has placed a major order with Artec GmbH for the delivery of 222 Schakal infantry fighting vehicles to the armed forces of Germany and the Netherlands. The new combat system, known internationally as Jackal, merges the highly mobile Boxer 8×8 wheeled armoured vehicle chassis with the advanced 30mm turret from the Puma infantry fighting vehicle, creating a new generation of modular and versatile combat capability for Europe’s medium forces.

Under the €3.41 billion contract, Rheinmetall will account for nearly €3 billion of the total value, reinforcing its position as a key industrial player in European defence manufacturing. Of the 222 vehicles, 150 will be delivered to the German Army and 72 to the Royal Netherlands Army. The agreement also includes a comprehensive logistics package—spare parts, training materials, and specialised tools—as well as optional add-ons such as enhanced anti-tank protection, counter-drone systems, and attack detection and identification technologies. The framework also allows for an optional future order of up to 248 additional vehicles.

The Schakal will serve as the principal weapon system for Germany’s newly established medium forces, combining exceptional mobility, protection, and firepower. Its integration of Rheinmetall’s MK 30-2/ABM autocannon enables effective engagement of a wide range of targets in complex and rapidly changing operational environments. Designed for speed and adaptability, the vehicle gives the medium forces the capability to move independently over long distances and respond swiftly to emerging threats.

Artec GmbH—a joint venture between Rheinmetall and KNDS Germany, with ownership shares of 64% and 36% respectively—acts as the main contractor for the Boxer system and now for the Schakal project. The company is also set to lead the development and production of the RCH 155, a next-generation remote-controlled howitzer based on the Boxer drive module and fitted with the proven PzH 2000 artillery system.

This latest order strengthens European defence collaboration and marks a significant milestone in the modernization of Germany and the Netherlands’ armed forces, aligning with NATO objectives for rapid deployment and interoperability.

Media Contacts:

Oliver Hoffmann
Head of Public Relations
Rheinmetall AG
Tel.: +49-(0)211 473 4748
oliver.hoffmann@
rheinmetall.com

SOURCE: RHEINMETALL AG