The contract for the acquisition was signed today at the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology, and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) with Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW). The project, with a total value of approximately 525 million euros, was approved by the Budget Committee of the German Bundestag on May 24, 2023, in record time, less than three months after the start of the procurement process.
The responsible project manager at BAAINBw emphasized, “Not only will the material previously transferred to Ukraine be replaced in the shortest possible time, but the tanks will also be of the latest version, the 2A8 – the newest variant of the proven main battle tank.” This version represents a further development based on the Leopard 2A7, incorporating advanced features such as the active protection system TROPHY. The army will receive a highly modern and capable system that combines excellent protection, effectiveness, and mobility.
The contract also includes a package for logistical support and an option for the delivery of up to 104 additional main battle tanks, including spare parts and maintenance, for a period of five years.
The first tanks are scheduled to be delivered as early as 2025. By the end of 2026, all 18 Leopard 2 A8 tanks will be available to the German Army, providing them with enhanced capabilities and bolstering their armored forces.
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