Hungary was launch customer for the Lynx infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) developed by Rheinmetall on the basis of Puma expertise. The Hungarian Ministry of Defence ordered a total of 209 Lynx in seven variants in September 2020, delivery of the first IFV from Hungarian production is scheduled to begin this year. The first German-built Lynx was handed over to the Hungarian armed forces on 15 October 2022.
Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) began in Hungary recently. This pre-series production is considered an important milestone and includes production of the Lance medium-calibre turret and other Lynx variants. Full-rate production (FRP) is scheduled to begin in July 2023. For this purpose, recruitment of qualified personnel and supply of technical equipment for the Lynx centre of excellence at the Zalaegerszeg site will continue during the course of this year, Rheinmetall reports.
In the first phase of the approximately €2 billion contract, Hungary is to receive 46 Lynx in infantry fighting vehicle and command & control configuration, as well as nine Büffel 3 armoured recovery vehicles from German production. In a second phase, 172 more Lynx and support vehicles are then to be produced in Hungary in a joint venture. Delivery of the first of these vehicles is scheduled for 2024. In addition to the vehicles, the order also includes delivery of ammunition and logistical services as well as 16 trucks.
Dorothee Frank, Head of editorial team
