Czech Army to Modernize with Acquisition of CV90 IFVs & Negotiations for Leopard 2A8 Tanks.

The Czech Armed Forces are set to undergo a significant modernization with the recent decision by the Czech Ministry of Defense to replace their fleet of BVP-2, a locally adapted version of the Soviet-made BMP-2, with the advanced CV90 Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) designed and manufactured by BAE Systems. Additionally, the Czech Republic has entered into negotiations for the acquisition of the German-made Leopard 2A8 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs), indicating a strategic shift in their military equipment. The Czech Ministry of Defense stated last July that it is considering purchasing up to 77 Leopard 2A8 tanks, showcasing the nation's commitment to enhancing its armed forces.
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A concept of the future Leopard 2A8 Main Battle Tank was unveiled during the defense exhibition IDET in the Czech Republic in May 2023. (Picture source Army Recognition)

In May 2023, during the IDET defense exhibition in Brno, the company KNDS, previously known as KMW (Kraus-Maffei Wegmann), presented a concept of the future Leopard 2A8 MBT. This exhibition highlighted the Czech Republic's interest in integrating cutting-edge military technology into its arsenal.

On May 24, 2023, BAE Systems announced an agreement involving the Swedish defense procurement organization FMV and BAE Systems Hägglunds for the purchase of 246 CV90 Mk IV infantry fighting vehicles in seven different variants. This deal is a part of a broader strategy to develop and deliver these vehicles through an industrial partnership with the Czech industry, aligning with the Czech Ministry of Defence's objectives of maintaining national sovereignty.

The CV90 MkIV, the latest generation of this renowned infantry fighting vehicle, is known for its deployment in various international operations under NATO and UN mandates. It offers exceptional tactical and strategic capabilities, capable of engaging a wide range of ground and airborne targets, and is resilient in diverse terrains and tactical situations.

Currently, the Czech Army is equipped with Leopard 2A4 tanks. In a show of support for Ukraine during its conflict with Russia, the Czech Republic donated its Soviet-designed T-72 tanks. In response, under the "Ringtausch" program, Germany provided Leopard 2A4s to Prague to help maintain Czech military capabilities.

On October 11, 2022, the Czech Ministry of Defence signed agreements for the delivery of 14 Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks and one advanced Büffel recovery vehicle, further demonstrating its commitment to a comprehensive military upgrade.

The Czech Army is set to be equipped with the Leopard 2A8, a state-of-the-art Main Battle Tank (MBT) that stands as the latest and most modernized variant in the renowned Leopard 2 family. Produced by German manufacturers KMW (Krauss-Maffei Wegmann) and Rheinmetall, the Leopard 2A8 is a notable advancement from the previous Leopard 2A7 model. It features an advanced armor protection system, believed to include the latest generation of multi-layered armor.

This Leopard 2A8 tank is equipped with a 120 mm/L55 smoothbore gun, mounted on a three-man turret. The L55 gun, manufactured by Rheinmetall AG, is an upgrade over the earlier L44 model. Its increased length, 1.3 meters longer than the L44, allows for higher muzzle velocities, enhancing the tank's accuracy, range, and penetration capabilities. The Leopard 2A8 is capable of firing a range of ammunition types, including APFSDS (Armor-Piercing Fin-Stabilized Discarding Sabot), HEAT (High-Explosive Anti-Tank), and versatile multipurpose rounds. A distinctive feature of its arsenal is the DM11 ammunition, programmable to explode at a specific point in its trajectory.

The Leopard 2A8's armor is significantly enhanced, featuring the latest generation of multi-layered armor incorporating steel, tungsten, composite materials, and ceramics. This robust construction is augmented with an additional passive armor kit for even greater protection. The design improvements are particularly focused on the turret roof and the tank's underbelly, offering increased resistance against mine blasts. A key defensive upgrade is the integration of a variant of the Israeli Trophy Active Protection System (APS), known as the EuroTrophy, which provides an active defense mechanism against incoming projectiles.

Powered by an upgraded 1,600 hp engine, a step up from the 1,500 hp engine in earlier models, the Leopard 2A8 boasts enhanced performance. The design adaptations, including the use of newly constructed hulls, likely accommodate this more powerful engine. The tank achieves a maximum road speed of 70 km/h and has an impressive operational range of approximately 450 kilometers without refueling, making it highly efficient for extended missions in varied terrains.

Defense News December 2023