200 boxer reconnaissance armored vehicles to the Australian Armed Forces

The Australian government has proposed the acquisition of the Boxer armored reconnaissance vehicle from Rheinmetall as part of a comprehensive modernization program for the country's armed forces. Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull publicly announced this today.

Assuming the corresponding contract is awarded, the order value for the German technology company will exceed 2 billion EUR. In total, 211 Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles (CRV) will be produced for the Australian armed forces. The reconnaissance variants of the state-of-the-art 8x8 all-wheel-drive vehicles will also be equipped with Rheinmetall's Lance turret, which features a 30mm weapon.

Thanks to its adapted composite armor, the Boxer is one of the most well-protected 8x8 combat vehicles currently available. Its modular concept provides great versatility and a variety of configurations.

The integrated Lance turret in the vehicle utilizes cutting-edge technologies that provide the Boxer CRV with a unique situational awareness capability. Advanced systems automatically detect, evaluate, and track threats on the battlefield. The turret is also equipped with a range of scalable effectors, including non-lethal systems, the latest airburst cannon technology, or anti-tank guided missiles, allowing the crew to engage the most aggressive threats on the battlefield.

In the summer of 2016, the Boxer CRV was selected as one of two candidates for the Risk Mitigation Activities (RMA) testing phase in the Australian LAND 400 Phase 2 selection process. The 8x8 armored reconnaissance vehicle impressed in all categories - protection, mobility, firepower, and command capability. The armed forces of Germany, the Netherlands, and Lithuania already have the proven 8x8 vehicle in service or procurement. Australia will be the fourth user of the Boxer.

Rheinmetall is understandably thrilled by this achievement. Ben Hudson, Head of the Vehicle Systems Division and member of the Rheinmetall Defence Executive Board, stated: "We are absolutely delighted with this outstanding success in the rigorous selection process of the Australian government. I would like to express my thanks to the highly dedicated and motivated Rheinmetall team and all of our supporters in Germany and Australia. The trust placed in us is an honor and a commitment to deliver an excellent product to the Australian Army and to continue being a reliable partner in the future." Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG, is equally enthusiastic: "We are honored to have been chosen by the Australian government as a partner in such a comprehensive flagship project for the modernization of the armed forces. This could lead to one of the largest orders in the company's recent history. Following the large truck order for the Australian Army that we secured in 2013, this is another great success story for Rheinmetall in the country. It continues the successful collaboration between Rheinmetall and the Australian government and armed forces in an impressive manner."

Rheinmetall is collaborating closely with the Australian industry in the Boxer 8x8 CRV project and has formed a strong and capable team. A significant portion of the industrial value creation for the manufacturing of the Boxer for the Australian armed forces will take place in the customer's country. Over 40 Australian companies are expected to be involved in the program.

To realize the project, Rheinmetall plans to establish its own center of excellence (Military Vehicle Centre of Excellence, MILVEHCOE) in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. This center will not only oversee and execute the project but will also, in close collaboration with the Queensland government, establish the industrial base for future defense exports from Australia as desired by the Australian government.

Rheinmetall Defence online: www.rheinmetall-defence.com
More information about BOXER CRV: www.boxercrv.com.au
BOXER CRV on Twitter: @boxercrv