The Netherlands has launched a broad modernisation programme for its fleet of Boxer armoured vehicles, adding new drone defence capabilities after more than a decade of operational service.
According to the Dutch Ministry of Defence, all of the Army’s roughly 200 Boxer vehicles will receive upgrades known as a midlife update, aimed at extending the platform’s service life and adapting it to new threats on the modern battlefield.
Among the main changes is the installation of new remotely controlled weapon stations with Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) capability, allowing crews to detect and engage enemy drones. The package also includes improvements to digital systems, the replacement of older components and maintenance upgrades.
“This enables crews to independently identify and neutralise enemy drones. This improvement addresses the growing threat posed by small unmanned systems on the modern battlefield,” the Dutch ministry said.
The Boxer vehicles have been in service in the Netherlands since 2013 and are mainly used by the Dutch Army’s 13th Light Brigade, including in NATO missions in Eastern Europe.
The modernisation reflects a broader trend among European countries, driven by lessons from the war in Ukraine and the growing use of drones in military operations.
In recent years, the Netherlands has also accelerated investments in mobile counter-drone systems, short-range air defence and new units specialising in drone and counter-drone operations.
Photo: Hayden Allega. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
