Lithuania has received the final tranche of its Boxer infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) ordered in 2016.
The overall budget for the project was 670 million euros ($733.8 million), with the latest delivery completing the expected fleet of 89 units and two prototype vehicles.
Vilnius has designated its Boxer platforms as “Vilkas” currently operated by the Iron Wolf Mechanized Infantry Brigade stationed in Rukla.
Each system incorporates an Israeli-made remote weapon station turret, a US-made 30-millimeter MK-44S autocannon, and the Spike long-range anti-tank guided missile.
The government plans additional procurements to provide the fleet with “drone jamming and other electronic defence upgrades” to enhance its capabilities.
Lithuanian Defence Minister Arvydas Anušauskas said the Boxers will amplify warfighter capabilities to support sovereign and allied security in Europe.
“Our Infantry Fighting Vehicles boasting superior armor and crew protection against mines are among the best across NATO,” he stated.
“These IFVs, the new Joint Light Tactical Vehicles JLTV, PzH2000 howitzers, Javelin anti-tank unit and the RBS-70 short-range air defence unit means the Iron Wolf Brigade is a NATO brigade with the most advanced equipment and now multifold more capable.”
Additional IFVs
Last year, Lithuania started negotiations with Rheinmetall and Krauss-Maffei Wegmann to buy additional Boxer IFVs for the military.
The acquisition will cover approximately 120 vehicles, with the expected delivery date to commence in 2024 once the new contract is signed.
First JLTV Tranche Completed
Meanwhile, Lithuania completed the first acquisition of Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs) from the US earlier this month.
This separate project for Vilnius’ land forces was announced three years after the IFV contract, with an option to procure up to 500 vehicles.
In 2021, the country accepted the first batch of JLTVs under the agreement from tactical mobility developer Oshkosh Defense. It was followed by a 50-unit delivery in 2022 and the third tranche in 2023.