According to a statement from the Spanish Ministry of Defense, Spain completed the training of Ukrainian Leopard 2A4 tank crew members and technical personnel in mid-March. The Toledo Training Coordination Centre (TTCC) in Zaragoza hosted the first group of Ukrainian trainees for these specific courses.
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Spanish army Leopard 2A4 MBT Main Battle Tank. (Picture source Army Recognition)
On March 31, 2023, the Army Recognition editorial team reported that the Spanish Government approved the delivery of six Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks to Ukraine after Easter to help Kyiv counter Russia's invasion. Spain has 327 Leopard battle tanks, of which it purchased 108 of the 2A4 model, the oldest currently operational, from Germany in the 1990s. The other 219 are the so-called Leopard 2E, a local version of the German Leopard 2A6 tank assembled in Spain and one of the most modern ones.
The training was initiated following Spain's official commitment to support Ukraine's defense efforts by providing battle tanks. At the time, Ukraine requested training for crews and technical personnel to deploy the tanks supplied by Spain, which included a reinforced platoon of Leopard 2A4s. These tanks are being updated and integrated with those from other countries.
The platoon consists of six vehicles, but as Defense Minister Margarita Robles stated, "Spain is willing to send more battle tanks if necessary and if our allies ask us to do so." The first group of trainees arrived in Spain on February 16th to receive the necessary training as battle tank crews and technicians. During the four-week course, the Ukrainian personnel learned how to use the combat vehicle's operational systems, perform technical tasks on various mechanical and electrical components, and employ these tanks tactically in small units.
The trainees had previous experience with battle tanks, so the training focused on the technical features of this combat system. Tactical training was designed from the outset to establish operational and well-coordinated crews.
The Leopard 2A4 main battle tank, developed in the late 20th century, laid the foundation for one of the most advanced and effective battle tanks used by Western countries: the Leopard 2A6 in the German or Swedish configurations and the Spanish Leopard 2E battle tank, the backbone of Spain's armored forces.
The Leopard 2A4 battle tank is known for its advanced technical features, which contribute to its effectiveness in combat situations. Among these features are its powerful engine, providing impressive mobility and speed, and its well-engineered armor, offering robust protection against various threats. The tank is also equipped with a sophisticated fire control system for accurate targeting and improved situational awareness, as well as a smoothbore main gun capable of firing various types of ammunition.
