The Norwegian government’s decision in 2023 to procure 54 new Leopard 2A8NOR tanks marks a pivotal step in modernizing the Norwegian Armed Forces. These tanks are the most advanced and digitized in the world, representing a critical enhancement to Norway’s defence infrastructure.
RITEK’s involvement goes beyond mere assembly. The company is set to become a Nordic hub for the maintenance, repair, and upgrading of the Leopard tank fleet across the region. This initiative ensures that RITEK will maintain a production line even after fulfilling the Norwegian order, enabling the export of these tanks to other countries. According to Norwegian Minister of Defence Bjørn Arild Gram, this development is a boon for local economic growth and national preparedness.
“The plan is for RITEK not only to assemble the Norwegian Leopard wagons but also to become a Nordic hub for maintenance, repair, and upgrading of the Nordic Leopard fleet. The production line is planned to be maintained after the Norwegian wagons have been produced, so that RITEK can continue to produce wagons to be exported to other countries. This is positive for both local value creation and Norwegian readiness,” said Gram.
The strategic location of RITEK, near crucial logistics hubs and a specialized workforce in the Nordic region, positions the company well to meet future demands. This agreement is expected to enhance NATO’s and Europe’s capacity to ramp up tank production, a vital component of collective defence and security.
“There is a need for increased heavy workshop capacity in the Nordics, which the agreement can facilitate. The contract signed by RITEK and KNDS Deutschland here today will strengthen both the industrial cooperation between Norway and Germany, while at the same time strengthening Europe’s resilience and security of supply,” added Gram.
