This acquisition is part of a joint initiative with the German government, with the first tanks expected to be delivered by 2027 and the last by 2030.
Once fully operational, the Dutch Armed Forces will have a complete tank battalion.
State Secretary Gijs Tuinman informed the Dutch Parliament of the purchase, stating that the decision is in response to NATO’s call for heavier combat capabilities.
The budget for this project ranges between EUR 1 billion and EUR 2.5 billion, as outlined in the Defence White Paper 2024, which had already signalled the return of tanks to the army.
The Leopard 2A8 was selected for its operational advantages and compatibility with international cooperation, particularly with Germany.
The tanks will offer powerful weaponry and protection against enemy fire, reinforcing the Netherlands’ combat strength.
Due to space constraints at Dutch barracks, the battalion may be stationed at the NATO Training Area in Bergen-Hohne, Germany, where there are sufficient facilities for realistic training.
The decision to purchase 46 tanks instead of the usual 52 is due to the Defence Ministry’s plan to integrate unmanned systems for both land, air, and sea operations.
A provision for an additional six tanks is included, with a decision on this to be made by 2027, depending on the progress of unmanned system technologies.
The acquisition also includes spare parts, maintenance contracts, and training, ensuring full operational readiness by 2030.
The Netherlands had phased out its tank fleet in 2011 due to budget cuts, but has maintained expertise through cooperation with Germany’s 414 Tank Battalion.
