Czech Republic to expand tank fleet with 14 additional Leopard 2A4 units to modernize armored forces.

According to CZ Defence on November 20, 2024, the Czech government is planning to deliberate on a public contract for the acquisition of 14 additional Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks. This purchase includes the integration of communication and information systems, workshop facilities, related materials, and an initial stock of ammunition. Rheinmetall Landsysteme has been selected as the supplier for this contract, valued at CZK 4.2 billion (approximately €168 million) excluding VAT. Delivery is expected by 2026, which will increase the total number of Leopard 2A4 tanks in the 73rd Tank Battalion to 42 units.
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The 42 Leopard 2A4 tanks procured by the Czech Republic will offer enhanced crew protection, interoperability, and firepower compared to the Soviet-era T-72M4 CZ. (Picture source: 73rd Tank Battalion)

The Czech Republic has been modernizing its armored forces through both donations and acquisitions of Leopard tanks. In October 2022, under Germany's "Ringtausch" equipment exchange program, the Czech Ministry of Defense signed an agreement with Rheinmetall Landsysteme to receive 14 Leopard 2A4 tanks and one Büffel armored recovery vehicle. In exchange, the Czech Republic provided Soviet-era equipment to Ukraine. This donation package included spare parts, ammunition, three years of service support, and training for Czech personnel, with an estimated value of just under CZK 4 billion (approximately €160 million). Additionally, Germany pledged another 14 Leopard 2A4 tanks and one Büffel 3 recovery tank in 2024, with deliveries scheduled between late 2024 and April 2025.

The cost estimate for the latest purchase of 14 Leopard 2A4 tanks is consistent with the financial framework of the October 2022 donation contract. Once completed, the 73rd Tank Battalion will operate 42 Leopard 2A4 tanks by 2026. This procurement is part of the Czech Republic’s effort to meet NATO Capability Targets by modernizing its defense capabilities and improving interoperability within the alliance. The Ministry of Defense has identified the enhancement of technological compatibility as a priority, citing the security situation in Ukraine as a key factor.

In addition to this contract, the Czech government has approved plans to acquire up to 77 Leopard 2A8 tanks from Germany. This decision, finalized in June 2024, is part of a joint procurement effort intended to replace the Czech Republic's T-72M4 CZ tanks and involve domestic industry in production and maintenance. The estimated cost of these tanks is approximately CZK 52 billion (around €2.08 billion), with deliveries expected by 2030. This acquisition supports the Czech Republic’s objectives to fulfill NATO’s heavy brigade requirements while replacing its aging fleet of T-72M4 CZ main battle tanks.

The Leopard 2A4 and T-72M4 CZ differ significantly in their design and modernization. The Leopard 2A4, introduced by Germany in the 1980s, is equipped with a 120 mm smoothbore gun, composite armor, and a four-person crew. It is powered by a 1,500 hp MTU MB 873 Ka-501 diesel engine, which provides a maximum speed of 68 km/h. The T-72M4 CZ, a Czech upgrade of the Soviet-era T-72M1, features a 125 mm 2A46M smoothbore gun, a 1,000 hp Perkins CV12-1000 engine, enhanced armor protection, and a modernized fire control system. It retains the original three-person crew configuration.

Operational data indicates differences in capabilities between the two models. The Leopard 2A4 has been assessed as effective against advanced threats such as modern Russian tanks, though its size and weight may present mobility challenges in certain terrains. The T-72M4 CZ, while incorporating improvements, retains design limitations such as restricted internal space and ammunition vulnerability. Its lighter weight, however, may allow for improved mobility in specific scenarios. The Czech Army currently operates both types of tanks, with Leopard 2A4 units being integrated into active service and T-72M4 CZ units undergoing further evaluation.