The contract was signed at the Bernardkazerne in Amersfoort on 14 May 2025, in the presence of State Secretary Gijs Tuinman, who endorsed the agreement. The procurement is part of a broader initiative spearheaded by the German government, allowing allied countries to acquire the advanced A8 configuration.
State Secretary Tuinman emphasised the strategic importance of the new tanks, stating, “With the current threat of a large-scale conflict, the tank is an indispensable tool. And when you stand next to it, you immediately understand why. The Leopard is pure combat power. This is the best there is in tank technology.”
The Dutch Armed Forces will take delivery of the first Leopard 2A8 in 2028, with the final units arriving by 2031. Once complete, the Netherlands will possess a fully modernised and innovative tank battalion, stationed in Lohheide, Lower Saxony, and consisting of 500 military personnel. The battalion will also include an unmanned component, reflecting a focus on technological integration and battlefield innovation.
The decision to procure the Leopard 2A8 follows a NATO call for enhanced heavy combat capabilities within the land forces of member states. Alongside the tanks, the contract also includes spare parts, special tools, factory training, and comprehensive documentation. The budget for the entire project is estimated to be between €1 billion and €2.5 billion.
To support training and operational readiness, the Dutch Army will also acquire four Leopard 2A8 DTVs (Driver Training Vehicles). These will be used at the Training Centre for Driving and Recovery to ensure personnel acquire the necessary licenses for operating the new tanks.
Compared to the older Leopard 2A6 models, which are officially owned by Germany, the Leopard 2A8 features significant enhancements. These include an improved barrel, better protection against improvised explosive devices (IEDs), superior sensors, an active protection system, and upgraded propulsion. This upgrade makes the A8 version a formidable and versatile asset on the battlefield.
State Secretary Tuinman highlighted the tank’s combat effectiveness, saying, “Inside, the crew and advanced systems form a unit with awe-inspiring firepower. A power that, combined with smart tactics, is difficult to counter. The Leopard remains the king of the battlefield.”
The project also demonstrates the Netherlands’ commitment to international cooperation within Europe. Lithuania is also benefiting from the German procurement framework, while other European countries such as Norway and Sweden have also opted for the Leopard 2A8, reinforcing the tank’s reputation as a standard for modern European armoured forces.
Since 2016, approximately 3,000 Dutch soldiers have been integrated into the German 1st Armored Division, demonstrating the strong bilateral military cooperation. The re-establishment of the tank battalion further solidifies the Netherlands’ commitment to bolstering its armoured capabilities alongside its German counterparts.
