Lithuania Strengthens its Military Power with 27 New Boxer Vilkas IFV
On October 11, 2024, the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) announced the signing of a contract with the ARTEC GmbH consortium for the delivery of 27 additional Boxer infantry fighting vehicles (IFV) for the Lithuanian army. This new agreement, designated as “Amendment 16,” marks a significant step in the Vilkas program, enabling Lithuania to expand its fleet of Boxer vehicles, a widely valued armored combat model known for its modularity and durability. This initiative is supported by close collaboration between OCCAR, the Lithuanian Defence Materiel Agency, and ARTEC, a consortium of Rheinmetall Land Systems and KNDS, two major German defense companies.
The Boxer 8×8 is a multirole wheeled armored vehicle designed by German and Dutch companies under the ARTEC GmbH industrial group to meet the diverse needs of modern armed forces. Its modular design allows for the integration of different mission modules, providing flexibility for roles such as troop transport, command, logistics, medical evacuation, repair, and 120mm mortar support. Equipped with an advanced protection system, it provides optimal protection against mines, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and ballistic threats. The Boxer features a remote weapon station that can be equipped with either a 12.7 mm machine gun or a 40 mm automatic grenade launcher, adaptable to national requirements. Powered by an MTU 8V199 TE20 diesel engine, the Boxer can reach speeds of 105 km/h with a range of 1,000 km, offering exceptional mobility across varied terrains and environmental conditions. Its strategic deployment capacity via road, rail, sea, or air (A400M) enhances its international operational potential.
The contract includes a new engineering variant of the Boxer, specifically designed for military engineering operations. This model will integrate demining and engineering equipment directly into the infantry fighting vehicle, significantly enhancing the tactical mobility of Lithuanian forces. Since joining the BOXER program in 2016, Lithuania has acquired 91 of these vehicles through an initial €358.6 million contract. Deployed within the “Iron Wolf” Infantry Brigade, these vehicles are used in various exercises, contributing to the rapid modernization of Lithuania’s land capabilities, as noted by National Defence Minister Laurynas Kasčiūnas.
This new order represents a strategic investment to increase the fleet to over 110 vehicles and ensure greater flexibility in Lithuania’s military operations. Along with the vehicles, the contract includes initial logistical support with spare parts, maintenance equipment, and training. OCCAR, in partnership with ARTEC, oversees the agreement’s implementation to ensure compliance with Lithuania’s specific requirements.
The Boxer “Vilkas” vehicles are equipped with Samson Mk II turrets produced by the Israeli company Rafael, armed with a 30mm MK-44S cannon and Spike LR anti-tank missiles. This versatile model meets the specific needs of Lithuanian forces, incorporating advanced technologies in protection and firepower and adaptable to various combat environments. The €370 million allocated to this new purchase includes both the combat vehicles and essential logistics to maintain operational efficiency through the delivery period, scheduled between 2027 and 2029.
Internationally, the OCCAR BOXER program is steadily expanding, with over 1,350 vehicles on order for Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and Lithuania. Other Boxer variants, including the Boxer CRV for Australia and the Skyranger 30, are also being produced by Rheinmetall Defence, with specialized models for reconnaissance and fire support missions in preparation for Germany and Ukraine. These developments underscore Boxer’s evolution as a modular platform adaptable to the diverse requirements of participating nations.
For Lithuania, this new order marks significant progress in its national defense program, aiming to improve training, command capabilities, and operational control for combat and demining units. The integration of military engineering vehicles enhances tactical capabilities to effectively meet modern security challenges. Beyond bolstering Lithuanian forces, this order reinforces European defense collaboration and demonstrates OCCAR’s capacity to manage complex armament programs for multiple nations.