The Australian government today awarded Rheinmetall an order to produce 123 “Heavy Weapon Carrier Infantry” combat vehicles, over 100 of which are to be manufactured in Australia for the Bundeswehr. The Düsseldorf-based company announced that this is Australia's largest military export to the Federal Republic. Rheinmetall Defense Australia managing director Nathan Poyner said: “Delivery is expected to begin in 2025.”
The Heavy Weapons Carrier Infantry is based on the Australian Army's Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle (CRV). The Boxer is a modern 8x8 armored vehicle in service with armies around the world. It offers improved protection for the crew and combines a high level of firepower and mobility for international operations, especially in peacekeeping missions up to high-intensity combat. The CRV is equipped with a reconnaissance module that includes the two-person Lance digital turret. It is the first manned medium-caliber turret to enter service on the Boxer platform.
Die Boxer werden im Rheinmetall-Kompetenzzentrum für militärische Fahrzeuge in Redbank im Südosten Queenslands produziert. Dort fertigen mehr als 650 qualifizierte Rheinmetall-Mitarbeiter Fahrzeuge, Panzerungen und Elektronik für Australien und globale Partner.
“We welcome the close strategic defense partnership between Australia and Germany as the two nations work together to enhance global security. The German Boxer program in Australia was made possible by Rheinmetall’s long-term Australian investment in product development and advanced manufacturing,” said Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG.
(RM/red)