Canada strengthens NATO forces in Latvia with Leopard 2A4M tanks.

Canada announced its plans to deploy a squadron of 15 Leopard 2A4M CAN tanks to Latvia and its neighboring countries as part of Operation Reassurance. Defense Minister Anita Anand revealed this important commitment during the NATO Defense Ministers meeting held in Brussels on June 16th, 2023. The deployment process will unfold gradually over the coming months, with the tanks, initial supporting personnel, and equipment expected to arrive in Latvia by the fall of 2023.
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A Leopard 2A4M CAN tank from Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians) travels on the Black Route of the 3rd Canadian Division Support Base Garrison Wainwright Training Centre in preparation for Exercise Maple Resolve 21 (Picture source: Canadian MoD)

In a move that underscores Canada's dedication to NATO's mission, Defence Minister Anita Anand announced the deployment of 15 Leopard 2A4M CAN battle tanks and associated vehicles to Latvia. As one of Canada's main battle tanks, the Leopard 2A4M has previously demonstrated its capabilities in Afghanistan.

Canada already leads a 10-country NATO battlegroup in Latvia, and the deployment of the Leopard 2A4M CAN tanks further strengthens its presence. The tanks will be accompanied by two armoured recovery vehicles and a range of maintenance, fuel, supply, and transport vehicles. This deployment, consists of a total of 50 vehicles, including the tanks.

Originally selected by the German Army in 1977, the Leopard 2 series quickly gained recognition for its performance and reliability. One notable aspect of the Leopard 2A4M is its upgraded firepower. Equipped with a powerful 120mm smoothbore gun, capable of firing various types of ammunition including APFSDS rounds and HEAT shells, this tank boasts a maximum effective range of over 4,000 meters. Its advanced fire control system, coupled with advanced targeting systems, ensures accurate engagement of targets, even at extended distances.

The Leopard 2, with its advanced composite and modular armor, offers protection against a wide range of threats, including anti-tank guided missiles and kinetic energy projectiles. The tank's armor design, coupled with its add-on armor modules, significantly enhances crew survivability. The Leopard 2A4M also boasts improved mobility, thanks to its powerful 1,500-horsepower engine and enhanced suspension system. It has a top speed of about 65 km/h and a range of around 550 kilometers. Furthermore, the Leopard 2A4M incorporates reliable situational awareness and communication systems. Equipped with thermal imaging and night vision devices, the tank offers very efficient target detection and identification capabilities, even in low-light or adverse weather conditions.

Canadian Leopard 2 ARV Armored Recovery Vehicle (Picture source: Canadian MoD)

Defense News June 2023