Czech Republic Purchases Up to 77 Leopard 2A8 Tanks from Germany.

The Czech Republic has approved a plan to acquire up to 77 modern Leopard 2A8 battle tanks from Germany, adding this acquisition to its ongoing strategic defense projects. We mentioned that the Czech Republic was close to finalizing this deal on June 7, 2024, as reported by Army Recognition.
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The Leopard 2A8 is a German main battle tank. (Picture source: German MoD)

On June 12, 2024, the Czech Cabinet approved joining a cooperation agreement for joint procurement with Germany, a crucial interim step according to the Czech Ministry of Defense. Final government approval is expected by the end of the year.

"Tanks remain an irreplaceable part of a heavy brigade," said Defense Minister Jana Černochová, emphasizing their high firepower, maneuverability, and resilience. She noted that the fighting in Ukraine has highlighted the importance of these weapon systems.

In May 2023, Germany signed a framework agreement with the manufacturer Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) to acquire up to 123 Leopard 2A8 tanks, offering partner countries the opportunity to purchase a share of these tanks. The German Bundeswehr is set to receive 18 new battle tanks by 2026.

The Leopard 2A8 is a modern battle tank equipped with a 120 mm/L55 smoothbore cannon, a 7.62 mm coaxial machine gun, and a Trophy APS countermeasure launcher. This armament configuration provides significant firepower and advanced defense capabilities against various threats.

In terms of protection, the Leopard 2A8 features a new generation of active and passive all-around armor, offering enhanced protection against modern Anti-Tank Guided Weapons (ATGW) and Rocket-Propelled Grenades (RPG). This sophisticated armor ensures increased survivability on the battlefield against contemporary threats.

Weighing between 65,000 and 67,000 kg, the Leopard 2A8 is designed in Germany and can reach speeds of up to 70 km/h on the road, allowing it to move quickly across different terrains.

The Leopard 2A8 is equipped with various combat systems, including a collective NRBC (Nuclear, Radiological, Biological, and Chemical) system, a power pack preheating system, a crew compartment heater, a fire extinguishing system, electric bilge pumps, a thermal imaging system, an auxiliary power unit, a crew compartment cooling system, and a panoramic sight for the commander. These features ensure crew comfort and safety while enhancing the tank's operational capabilities.

With a range of 450 km, the Leopard 2A8 allows for extended operations without frequent refueling. It is designed to be operated by a crew of four and measures 7.7 meters in length, 4.0 meters in width, and 3.0 meters in height, providing an imposing presence and the ability to maneuver in various combat environments.

The Czech Republic plans to order 61 Leopard 2A8s in six different versions, including main battle tanks, command vehicles, bridge-laying tanks, and training tanks. The Ministry of Defense in Prague estimates the cost of this order at €1.6 billion ($1.73 billion), with an option for 16 additional vehicles, which could raise the total price to €2.1 billion.