Norway to send comprehensive Leopard 2 tanks package to Ukraine.

On February 14, 2023, the Norwegian government publishes what follows: ‘’Almost one year has passed since Russia’s attack on Ukraine. It has been a horrible year with war, war crimes, destruction and murder to an extent that we have not seen since World War II. Because it is more crucial than ever to support Ukraine’s fight for freedom, we have decided to donate 8 main battle tanks and up to 4 special-purpose tanks to Ukraine. Several other allied countries have also decided to donate tanks’’, says Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.
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The Norwegian decision to donate Leopard 2A4 tanks and special-purpose tanks has been made after close dialogue with both the Chief of Defence and other European countries (Picture source: Wikimedia Commons)

The Norwegian decision to donate Leopard 2A4 tanks and special-purpose tanks has been made after close dialogue with both the Chief of Defence and other European countries. The war in Ukraine is nearing a critical phase and they are dependent upon timely and substantial support. Norway will also contribute with educating and training Ukrainian tank crews in Poland, along with other allied countries.

On January 26th, Norway announced its commitment to contribute to the international donation of tanks to Ukraine. The government considers that this donation of tanks leaves Norway with satisfactory national readiness. This is an assessment the Chief of Defence shares. The country will also remain able to fulfill its commitments to NATO, says the Minister of Defence.

The types of special purpose tanks in the armored engineering and bridge layer category will be considered from what Ukraine needs the most.

"The tank package will include the donation of ammunition and spare parts. In addition, Norway will also offer 250 Mn NOK to the EU Ukraine fund, the European Peace Facility. The funds will be earmarked for ammunition and spare parts for the Leopard 2. This will strengthen the effect of the Norwegian donation", says Gram.

The Norwegian military support to Ukraine consists of donations from its own stock, contributions to international collaborative efforts, donations of equipment straight from the industry, and the training of Ukrainian military personnel. "At this point, Norway deems it absolutely necessary to donate from its own stock. It is vital for Norwegian and European security that the Russian aggression against Ukraine does not succeed", says the Minister of Defence.

"The goal of the Norwegian military support for Ukraine is to enable the country to defend itself against Russian attacks and regain control and authority in its own territory. Ukraine has a dire, substantial and lasting need for international support. Norway has already contributed significantly and will continue to do so in the coming years", says Gram.

The Norwegian government has recently communicated to the Parliament that a support package for Ukraine for the next five years will amount to 75 Bn NOK.