Hungary takes delivery of first German Leopard 2A7 MBTs Main Battle Tanks.

The first of the Leopard 2A7HU Main Battle Tanks were officially delivered to the Hungarian armed forces on December 14, 2023. This significant acquisition marks a new era in Hungary's defense capabilities. The handover ceremony was attended by Hungarian Defence Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky.

On December 14, 2023, the first Leopard 2A7HU Main Battle Tanks were officially handed over to the Hungarian armed forces. (Picture source Hungary MoD)

The Hungarian Ministry of Defense signed a contract with the German defense company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) for the purchase of Leopard 2A7 main battle tanks. This contract, signed on December 19, 2018, was part of Hungary's "Zrínyi 2026" Defense and Military Development Program. The contract was valued at more than $565 million and included the delivery of 44 new Leopard 2A7 main battle tanks, 24 PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzers, and 12 used Leopard 2A4 tanks for training purposes.

The first of these newly manufactured Leopard 2A7+HU tanks arrived in Hungary in August 2023. These tanks are currently the most advanced in their class worldwide, featuring enhanced protection against various threats, including improvised explosive devices and anti-tank mines. They are equipped with a new fire control system, a remote weapon station, a commander's sight, and enhanced roof protection. The Leopard 2A7+HU variant is designed to operate effectively in both low-intensity and high-intensity conflicts.

These tanks are part of a broader effort by the Hungarian Defense Forces to modernize their equipment and replace Soviet-era T-72 tanks and artillery systems. The Leopard 2A7+HU tanks are expected to significantly enhance Hungary's armored fighting capabilities, bringing them on par with some of the most modern militaries in Europe. Deliveries of the Leopard 2A7+HU tanks to Hungary are scheduled to continue until 2025.

In addition to the Leopard tanks, Hungary's modernization program includes the procurement of more than 200 Lynx IFVs (Infantry Fighting Vehicles) and other military equipment from the Düsseldorf-based company Rheinmetall. This comprehensive modernization will allow the Hungarian Defense Forces to replace Soviet-era weapons with modern systems, creating a heavy brigade capable of operating effectively with NATO allies.

The Leopard 2A7 is a highly advanced main battle tank developed by Krauss-Maffei Wegmann, a German company. It represents a significant upgrade over its predecessors in the Leopard 2 tank series, offering enhanced capabilities in various aspects of modern armored warfare. The tank is distinguished by its state-of-the-art technology, including improved armor protection, a powerful 120mm smoothbore gun, and advanced fire control systems. These features ensure that the Leopard 2A7 remains effective in both high-intensity conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

In terms of design, the Leopard 2A7 is equipped with modular armor, providing increased protection against a range of threats, including improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and anti-tank mines. The tank's operational capabilities are further augmented by its sophisticated electronics and optics, which include third-generation thermal imaging and an improved automatic fire extinguishing system. The Leopard 2A7's versatility and adaptability make it suitable for a variety of combat scenarios, ensuring that it remains one of the most capable and sought-after main battle tanks in modern military inventories.

Defense News December 2023