Image source: topwar.ru
Germany and the Netherlands have signed a contract with ARTEC GmbH, a joint venture between Rheinmetall and KNDS Deutschland, for the development and supply of 222 Schakal wheeled infantry fighting vehicles. 150 units are intended for the Bundeswehr (for € 3.4 billion), 72 for the Dutch army. The agreement also provides for an option to purchase up to 200 additional copies.
Schakal, also known in Germany as the "medium wheeled armored vehicle", was created by integrating a modified Boxer armored personnel carrier chassis (in an upgraded version of the Future Common Drive Module) with a remote-controlled RCT30 cannon module, similar to the tracked Puma infantry fighting vehicle, which received similar weapons.
The delivery of production vehicles to the Bundeswehr is planned from the end of 2027 to 2031. The transfer of infantry fighting vehicles to the Netherlands is expected to begin no earlier than the end of 2028. In the German army, Schakal will become the main weapon system of two special units of mechanized infantry belonging to the newly introduced category of "medium forces".
The RCT30 combat module is equipped with a stabilized 30-2/ABM 30 mm x 173 caliber gun from Rheinmetall and provides accurate destruction of mobile targets both from the spot and in motion. Due to the growing threat from UAVs, KNDS Germany has modified the RCT30, giving the gun the ability to fire projectiles with programmable detonation. Anti-tank capabilities will be provided by a launcher mounted on the left side of the turret, with two MELLS ATGM (Spike LR/Spike LR2).
Image source: topwar.ru
MUSS 2.0 self-defense system
It is assumed that the RCT30 in the German Army will be installed in the turret of the Puma modification S1 infantry fighting vehicle. In this regard, the vehicle will receive the MUSS 2.0 self-defense system. It will also be equipped with an all-round viewing system similar to the Puma infantry fighting vehicle. Two aft hatches are provided.
According to available data, the Schakal combat compartment will have a volume similar to the Puma infantry fighting vehicle. This will make it possible to accommodate in the new car, in addition to the crew (driver, commander and gunner), six fully equipped grenadiers, who, as stated in the Hartpunkt publication, will be "comparable in terms of [equipment] with the Prussian Guard."
The modified use of the Future Common Drive Module platform will allow carrying a maximum payload of 40 tons due to new tires and chassis upgrades.
