In the late 2010s, the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) began developing an upgrade program for its Puma infantry fighting vehicles to meet the requirements of the NATO Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (VJTF) rapid response force configuration. The program included installing Spike-LR ATGMs, improving communication systems, and making a number of minor changes. In 2021, the decision was made to modernize 40 vehicles, which are expected to be completed by 2023. Two units equipped with the upgraded IFVs were to join the German component of the VJTF task force. The Bundeswehr also plans to modernize an additional 266 IFVs to the PUMA VJTF standard.
Of particular interest is a Puma from the Panzergrenadierbataillon 33 during exercises held in 2022. To imitate additional camouflage and reduce visibility, the vehicle was fitted with an unusual set of field modifications, including wooden pallets attached to the sides and turret, as well as numerous strips of fabric and camouflage elements.
The Puma u14 was introduced in Update 2.57 "Heavy Cavalry". Compared to the researchable Puma VJTF, this variant differs only in its unique appearance consisting of various fabrics and wooden pallets. Otherwise, it is the same Puma, offering excellent mobility and decent composite protection. Its 30mm autocannon and Spike-LR II ATGMs enable it to engage enemy targets, including more heavily armored vehicles. Drawbacks include the autocannon's insufficient rate of fire and limited Spike missile ammunition.
| Ammunition | Type | Armor penetration (mm) at a distance: | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 m | 100 m | 500 m | 1000 m | 1500 m | 2000 m | ||
| ATGM (tandem) | 900 | 900 | 900 | 900 | 900 | 900 | |
| Belt | Belt filling | Armor penetration (mm) at a distance: | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 m | 100 m | 500 m | 1000 m | 1500 m | 2000 m | ||
| APDS | 87 | 86 | 81 | 75 | 70 | 65 | |
| APFSDS | 121 | 120 | 114 | 107 | 100 | 92 | |
| HEI-T | 9 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 3 | 3 | |
| AHEAD | 44 | 42 | 34 | 26 | 20 | 16 | |
| Belt | Belt filling | Armor penetration (mm) at a distance: | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 m | 100 m | 500 m | 1000 m | 1500 m | 2000 m | ||
| Ball/T | 5 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | |
Mobility | |
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Protection | |
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Firepower | ||
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