The Dutch Armed Forces are set to enhance their Boxer armored vehicles with new counter-drone technologies under a comprehensive modernization program aimed at extending the fleet’s combat relevance beyond a decade of service. According to the Dutch Ministry of Defence, the midlife upgrade initiative will equip the Boxer fleet with improved digital systems, anti-drone capabilities, and replacement parts for aging equipment to ensure continued operational readiness in future missions. The Boxer has served as the primary wheeled armored vehicle of the Royal Netherlands Army since 2013 and has been actively deployed in operations including NATO’s Enhanced Forward Presence mission in Lithuania. One of the most significant additions is a new Remote Controlled Weapon Station featuring integrated counter-UAV functionality. The system will allow vehicle crews to identify and neutralize hostile drones without external support, reflecting the increasing importance of drone defense on modern battlefields. The Netherlands is also collaborating with Boxer manufacturer Artec to improve spare-parts availability and simplify maintenance by replacing outdated onboard systems. The upgrade program forms part of a larger Dutch push to strengthen defenses against unmanned aerial threats. In December, the Netherlands ordered 100 drone-detection radars from domestic company Robin Radar for deployment at airbases, military facilities, and critical infrastructure sites. These systems can distinguish drones from birds and other moving targets, improving early-warning capabilities. Additionally, the Dutch government selected Rheinmetall Air Defence to deliver Skyranger air defense systems to the Dutch Armed Forces under a deal valued at several hundred million euros, with deliveries planned for 2028 and 2029.
