While the exact number of tanks and their variants to be purchased by the Czech Republic are yet to be specified, the deal is expected to include both guaranteed and optional parts. In May, the German defence ministry signed a framework agreement to acquire a total of 123 Leopard 2A8 tanks, with an executive contract for eighteen units for delivery in 2025-2026 at a cost of approximately EUR 525 million.
Sources within the Czech defence ministry indicate that the basic order might include forty-four Leopard 2A8 tanks in combat/command versions and fifteen support vehicles (technical support vehicles, assault bridges). There is also a potential option to expand the order with an additional fourteen Leopard 2A8 tanks and four support vehicles, although these details are yet to be officially confirmed.
The tanks are planned to be allocated to the 73rd Tank Battalion in Přáslavice, enabling the creation of four companies equipped with modern equipment. Currently, the brigade operates Leopard 2A4 and thirty T-72M4CZ tanks.
The delivery of the Leopard 2A8 tanks is anticipated between 2027 and 2030+. In line with plans to increase the size of the Czech armed forces to 30,000 professional soldiers and 10,000 in active reserve by 2030, the currently used Leopard 2A4 and T-72M4CZ tanks might be shifted to reserve roles, replacing the smaller T-72M1 tanks not transferred to Ukraine. There is also a possibility that the Leopard 2A4 tanks could form a fifth company within the 73rd Tank Battalion.
Additionally, it is noteworthy that Prague had previously purchased 246 CV90 Mk IV infantry fighting vehicles in seven different configurations in May, ensuring the involvement of the domestic industry in their production. This move signifies the Czech Republic’s commitment to modernizing its military capabilities and aligning with advanced NATO standards.
