What Is the Puma IFV? Germany’s Most Advanced Infantry Fighting Vehicle Explained
The Puma IFV is Germany’s most advanced infantry fighting vehicle, developed jointly by Rheinmetall and Krauss-Maffei Wegmann through their PSM GmbH joint venture as the successor to the Marder. Entering service in 2015, it represents the third-generation IFV concept with its MUSS active protection system, closed optics architecture and high automation level.
System Identity
| Developer | Rheinmetall + KMW (PSM GmbH) |
| Type | Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) |
| Service Entry | 2015 (Bundeswehr) |
| Production | 350 ordered, 300+ delivered |
| Operators | Germany only |
Technical Specifications
| Weight | 31.45t (base) / 43t (full armour) |
| Engine | MTU 10V 892 (1,088 hp) |
| Max Speed | 70 km/h |
| Main Gun | 30mm MK 30/2 ABM (AHEAD capable) |
| Active Protection | MUSS soft-kill system |
| Dismounts | 6 troops |
The 2022 Crisis
In December 2022, all 18 Pumas deployed for a NATO exercise broke down, exposing critical Bundeswehr readiness issues. The incident damaged Rheinmetall’s and KMW’s reputations significantly. After an investigation and fixes, deliveries resumed — but the episode underscored the risks of high-complexity armoured systems with limited production experience.
Sources
- PSM GmbH — Puma Product Page
- Bundeswehr — Schützenpanzer Puma Programme
- Jane’s Armoured Fighting Vehicles
