Germany is ordering 200 new Puma IFVs for an incredible €4.2 billion with deliveries starting in mid-2028. The vehicles will be in S1 modification, to which the already existing fleet is being upgraded.
System & Management GmbH (PSM), which is a joint venture between KNDS Germany and Rheinmetall, was contracted. And these two companies, acting as contractors, will each receive €2.1 billion.
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Recall that this is already the second new order for Puma after the first was made in 2023. Then it concerned 50 units for €1.5 billion, meaning by rough calculation €30 million per one.
Under the current contract, the IFV will cost €21 million, which is significantly cheaper than previous figures. However, this is still more expensive than all possible analogues and is at the level of South Korean K2 tanks.
It shouldn't be forgotten that we don't know the complete composition of the procurement, and it will include, among other things, protective modules and storage containers. Therefore, the price may look too high, but actually include various additional costs, something like what's currently happening with Polish Borsuk.
In addition to all this, Germany plans to include an amendment to Puma procurement in mid-2026, which will include a new S2 version. It will be aimed at reducing vehicle obsolescence and providing them with modern capabilities, such as countering drones based on solutions from wheeled Jackal (Schakal)
Regarding the already existing fleet of such tracked IFVs, the Bundeswehr from 2023 to 2024 ordered modernization of 297 units to S1 standard. This includes installation of high-quality day and night cameras, integration of MELLS small multipurpose guided missiles and updating radio equipment. All this should be completed in 2029.
So, Puma continues to hold the title of most expensive infantry fighting vehicles, although no longer with such a large gap. And this could be helped by mass ordering, which is taking place within Germanys huge defense procurement, which also includes other armored vehicles, such as Patria 6x6.
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