31 Leopard 2A7HU main battle tanks delivered to Hungary by KNDS Deutschland

By Defence Industry Europe

Hungary has now received 31 Leopard 2A7HU main battle tanks, marking a significant milestone in the modernisation of its armed forces. Defence Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky announced the latest delivery on Wednesday, alongside the arrival of the first Wisent 2 Armoured Recovery Vehicle (ARV) at the HDF 1st Armoured Brigade in Tata.

 

The Leopard 2A7HU tanks, tailored to meet Hungarian defence requirements, were procured under a 2018 agreement with KNDS Deutschland Group. This contract also includes 44 Leopard 2A7 tanks, 24 PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzers, and additional support vehicles such as tracked recovery and bridge-layer systems, all scheduled for delivery by 2028.

Minister Szalay-Bobrovniczky emphasised the importance of advanced engineering vehicles like the Wisent 2, which are essential for modern armed forces. Built on the Leopard 2 chassis, the Wisent 2 can recover and tow damaged combat vehicles and be equipped with crane, excavator, and mine ploughing capabilities.

The Wisent 2 boasts a modular structure, allowing it to switch between recovery and engineering roles within five hours. Its crane can lift up to 32 tonnes, enabling battlefield damage repairs such as engine replacements, which are vital for operational efficiency during missions.

 

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Hungary’s defence plan includes receiving five Wisent 2HU recovery vehicles and three Leguan 2HU Armoured Bridge Layers by 2028, in addition to the Leopard tanks. These assets aim to enhance the Hungarian Defence Forces’ capabilities and align with the requirements of 21st-century warfare.

“Modern military equipment serves both the security of the Hungarian people and strengthens the deterrence capabilities of the Hungarian Defence Forces,” said the minister. The ongoing deliveries underline Hungary’s commitment to building a technologically advanced and capable military force.

 

Source: Hungarian Ministry of Defence.

 

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