This comprehensive contract covers a wide range of services, including program management, maintenance, technical and engineering support, supply chain assistance, and other necessary support services. A key component of the agreement is the establishment of a maintenance and repair centre in Canada to ensure the operational readiness of the fleet.
To specifically handle this project, KNDS Canada Inc., based in Ottawa, has been established and will be responsible for the implementation of the contract. The contract, which begins in September 2024, is set to run until March 2031, with an option to extend for an additional five years.
Markus Schmidt, Senior Vice President of Customer Support at KNDS, expressed the company’s commitment to the Canadian Armed Forces, stating, “As a system house and manufacturer of the Leoapard 2, we have felt a strong connection with Canada and the Canadian Armed Forces for almost 20 years. For KNDS, the contract for the long-term support of the systems is an honour, and we are aware of our responsibility to ensure the operational capability of 74 Leoapard 2 battle tanks and 29 family vehicles.”
The total value of the contract, including core and additional services, exceeds EUR 600 million, reflecting the importance of maintaining the Leoapard 2 fleet for Canada’s defence capabilities.
