Last week we wrotethat Germany is preparing to purchase Leopard 2A8 tanks. The Czech Republic decided to join the program.
What is known
Germany intends to spend more than $3 billion on 123 tanks. At the same time, the first batch of combat vehicles will include only 18 units worth about $565 million. Deliveries of the Leopard in the 2A8 configuration will begin in 2025.
The Czech Ministry of Defense is also seeking to update the fleet of main battle tanks. The defense department has set its sights on ordering 70 level 2A8 combat vehicles. Jana Černochová, Czech Defense Minister, will negotiate procurement with the German companies Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and Rheinmetall.
The potential investment paves the way for the army of the Czech Republic to acquire a first-class ground platform that is in service with other countries. The Czech Republic can count on a reduction in the cost of the Leopard 2A8 and accelerated deliveries in case of successful negotiations.
Officials of the Czech Defense Ministry expect that by the end of this decade, the updated fleet of tanks will be valued at “tens of billions of crowns.” For understanding, 10 billion CZK equals approximately $450 million.
The Leopard 2A8 will be based on the 2A7HU configuration developed specifically for the Hungarian armed forces. The new version of the tank will receive Trophy active protection, enhanced protection against mines and anti-tank missiles, a new engine, improved optics and a 120-mm Rheinmetall L55 cannon.
Source: Defense News
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