The VJTFVery High Readiness Joint Task Force Puma armoured infantry fighting vehicle - a new age for armoured infantry

The Puma Armoured Infantry Fighting Vehicle and the Future Infantryman - Enhanced System merge to become the Armoured Infantry System for NATO’s Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (VJTFVery High Readiness Joint Task Force ). The armoured infantry forces have gone digital, with networks among themselves, in their fighting vehicles and with the environment. The Puma AIFV has taken, and is still taking, a long way to the field units.

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The operational suitability testing in July 2020 revealed substantial deficiencies in the Puma AIFV severely curtailing the system’s capabilities. At that time, it would have been irresponsible to decide in favour of employing the vehicle for VJTFVery High Readiness Joint Task Force . To take things forward, the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support, the Army Concepts and Capabilities Development Centre and the field units have then cooperated with industry closely and in a targeted fashion. During the past six months, it has been possible, despite the considerable time pressure, to significantly modify the Armoured Infantry System with the VJTFVery High Readiness Joint Task Force Puma AIFV. The system's tactical combat capability has now been determined - an essential prerequisite for the decision in favour of employing the Armoured Infantry System for VJTFVery High Readiness Joint Task Force 2023 as part of NRFNATO Response Force from 2022 to 2024. Optical devices, weapon effect and the protection of military personnel have been enhanced even further. Hence, 112 Armoured Infantry Battalion will be able to undergo the planned training and obtain the certification as the German contribution to VJTFVery High Readiness Joint Task Force 2023. More than 250 combat-ready Puma AIFVs will be required to fulfil the commitment to the alliance and national defence.