Ukraine receives 4 more Leopard 2A4 Main Battle Tanks from Spain
On July 24, 2023, Spain sent a new shipment of military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. The delivery, consisting of various equipment and vehicles, including 4 Leopard 2A4 tanks, is expected to arrive in early August and will contribute to the strengthening of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
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Leopard 2A4 Main Battle Tank (Picture source: Ministry of Defense of Spain)
The mission departed from the port of Santander. Among the items sent are four Leopard 2A4 tanks, which were previously promised by the Spanish government, adding to the six similar Leopard 2 tanks that Spain already delivered to Ukraine.
The Leopard 2A4 is an iconic battle tank known for its reliability and power. Designed in Germany, it is currently used by several countries, including Austria, Canada, Chile, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Greece, Indonesia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Switzerland, Sweden, Slovakia, Spain, Turkey, and Ukraine.
Weighing approximately 62,000 kg in combat condition, the Leopard 2A4 can reach a maximum speed of 72 km/h on the road, with an impressive range of 500km. Equipped with a 120 mm/L55 smoothbore gun, a coaxial 7.62mm machine gun, and an anti-aircraft 7.62mm machine gun on top of the loader hatch, the Leopard 2A4 is armed to face a variety of targets effectively on the battlefield. Its standard-spaced multilayer armor offers enhanced protection over the front turret, and the turret interior is fitted with spall liners to safeguard the crew from potential explosions. The tank is also equipped with infrared night vision and an NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) protection system, enabling the crew to conduct operations efficiently even in challenging and hostile conditions. The Leopard 2A4 is operated by a four-man crew.
With this new shipment, Ukraine's fleet of armored vehicles will be expanded further. The number of Leopard 2A4 tanks sent to Ukraine will increase from 47 to 51 units. It remains to be seen how the Ukrainian Army will utilize these combat tanks in their ongoing operations. In addition to the Leopard tanks, the shipment includes ten armored TOAs M-113 vehicles and ten trucks from the Spanish Navy.
Medical support was also considered in this delivery: three civilian ambulances and one armored BMR ambulance will be distributed to various military hospitals in Ukraine. On July 23, 2023, another significant milestone was achieved with the arrival of a field hospital in Poland. This highly specialized medical equipment will provide vital assistance to those affected by the conflict.