The Netherlands Ordered 72 Schakal Infantry Fighting Vehicles With Improved Drone Protection

The Netherlands has signed a contract for the purchase of 72 of the latest Schakal wheeled infantry fighting vehicles as part of a joint project with Germany.

The manufacturer is ARTEC GmbH, a consortium of Rheinmetall and KNDS Deutschland. The contract is being implemented through the European defense agency OCCAR, Hartpunkt reports.

This is Schakal’s first major order from the Kingdom of the Netherlands, which demonstrates the deepening of defense cooperation with Germany and integration into European defense initiatives. Deliveries of the Dutch vehicles are expected from the end of 2028.

The Schakal is based on the Boxer platform with the RCT30 combat module, an unmanned turret known from the German Puma infantry fighting vehicle. The vehicle is equipped with a 30-mm MK 30-2/ABM automatic cannon capable of effectively engaging targets on the move.

To combat armored vehicles, the Schakal will have a launcher with two MELLS anti-tank missiles (Spike LR/LR2). The production models for the Netherlands are expected to be equipped with advanced drone defense systems developed by KNDS Deutschland.

In addition to combat vehicles, the contract provides for the supply of simulators, spare parts and logistics support. The agreement also contains an option for an additional 200 Schakal units, which opens up prospects for further expansion of the armored vehicle fleet.

Germany has also purchased 150 Schakal infantry fighting vehicles worth about EUR 3.4 billion.