What Is the Rheinmetall Lynx KF41? The IFV That Won Australia and Hungary
The Rheinmetall Lynx KF41 has achieved what few modern armored vehicles manage: winning two major NATO-aligned procurement competitions in quick succession. Australia selected it over Hanwha’s AS-21 Redback, and Hungary signed for 218 units. Now the Lynx KF41 is competing in the US Army’s OMFV program.
Vehicle Identity
| Manufacturer | Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH |
| Type | Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) |
| Origin | Germany |
| First Unveiled | 2017 (DSEI, London) |
| First Contract | 2019 — Hungary |
| Operators | Hungary, Australia |
Technical Specifications
| Length | 7.89 m |
| Width | 3.60 m |
| Combat Weight | 38–44 tonnes |
| Engine | MTU 8V 199 TE20 (1,140 hp) |
| Transmission | RENK HSWL 256B |
| Max Speed | 70 km/h |
| Range | 520 km |
| Main Armament | 30mm MK 30-2/ABM |
| Crew | 3 |
| Dismount Capacity | 8 troops |
Operators
Hungary: 218 Lynx KF41 ordered in 2019. Rheinmetall production facility established in Debrecen. First deliveries 2023.
Australia: Won LAND 400 Phase 3 in 2023 over AS-21 Redback. 129 IFVs + 8 support vehicles, option to 211. Production at Maryborough, Queensland.
United States (evaluation): OMFV finalist vs General Dynamics Griffin III. Decision expected 2027.
Sources
- Rheinmetall AG — Lynx Product Page
- Australian Department of Defence — LAND 400 Phase 3, 2023
- Jane’s Armoured Fighting Vehicles
- Defence News — Rheinmetall Australia Contract, 2023
