Ukraine to Become First Operator of Rheinmetall's Caracal Air Assault Vehicles

Ukraine is set to become the first nation to deploy Caracal air assault vehicles, as announced by Rheinmetall on its official website.

The anticipated delivery of five of these vehicles is scheduled for late 2023 or early 2024.

The Caracal, derived from the civilian Mercedes-Benz G-Class SUV, serves as a light-air assault vehicle with the unique capability to transport two units internally and function as an external load for CH-47F Chinook and CH-53K King Stallion helicopters.

Rheinmetall's design features include the option to integrate additional ballistic protection elements, and its modular structure permits the installation and combination of various weapons, ranging from machine guns to anti-tank missile systems.

Given the vehicle's purpose, it is speculated that it will find application in Ukraine's Special Operations Forces or other specialized units within the DIU. Recent reports from Militarnyi on October 10 hinted at a German military assistance package, possibly involving Caracal vehicles for Ukrainian SOF.

Earlier in June, it was revealed that Germany and the Netherlands were engaged in a joint purchase of Caracal AAVs from Rheinmetall, with a contract totaling €302.5 million. The production, spanning five years, is set to commence in 2025, aiming for an annual output of 100 vehicles.