UK Unveils First British-Made Boxer Vehicles for Army
The first fully British-made Boxer armoured vehicle was unveiled at the International Armoured Vehicle Conference in Farnborough on 21 January 2025. This milestone is part of the UK’s £5 billion ($6.15 billion) investment to supply the British Army with 623 advanced Boxer vehicles, alongside 148 Challenger 3 tanks, which are expected to be in service by the end of 2030. About 75% of the Boxer’s components are made in the UK, ensuring a strong and reliable local supply chain. The Boxer programme significantly boosts British industry, supporting approximately 400 jobs in Telford and Stockport, and around 1,000 across the UK supply chain.
The Boxer vehicles are being manufactured by Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL), a joint venture between two leading defence companies: BAE Systems from the UK and Rheinmetall AG from Germany. This collaboration combines the expertise of both companies to deliver cutting-edge military technology.
The production of the British Army’s new platforms – Ajax, Boxer, and Challenger 3 – will create and support over 6,000 jobs across the UK. These advanced vehicles will help troops move faster, transporting soldiers on and around the battlefield to carry out their missions. Boxers are highly versatile and can quickly adapt to different military roles and operations worldwide.
Defence Procurement Minister Maria Eagle MP said she was proud to unveil the first fully British-made Boxer, highlighting the skill and innovation of the UK’s growing defence industry.
The Boxer is a large and versatile 8×8 wheeled armoured vehicle designed to deliver exceptional performance and protection in diverse operational environments. It is 7.9 meters (25.9 feet) in length, 3.0 meters (9.8 feet) in width, and 2.4 meters (7.9 feet) in height. Its weight ranges from 24 to 38 tons, depending on the mission module and armour configuration. With a ground clearance of 0.5 meters (1.6 feet), the Boxer excels in off-road mobility. It can reach a maximum speed of 103 km/h (approximately 64 mph). Its modular design allows for quick role changes, making it adaptable for various military tasks. These features provide ample space for troops and equipment while ensuring excellent mobility across different terrains.