New German Military Aid for Ukraine Including Leopard 1A5 Tanks.

On July 29, 2024, Germany announced a new series of military aid for Ukraine, further strengthening its commitment alongside Kyiv in the face of the Russian invasion. This update of military equipment deliveries includes a diverse set of materials aimed at enhancing the defensive and operational capabilities of the Ukrainian armed forces, notably including the delivery of eight Leopard 1A5 Main Battle Tanks.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

The Leopard 1A5 Main Battle Tank. (Picture source: German MoD)

Germany has delivered eight Leopard 1A5 main battle tanks. Although these tanks are older than the Leopard 2, they remain effective due to their mobility and firepower, offering Ukraine enhanced capabilities for its ground operations. Two Bergepanzer 2 armored recovery vehicles have also been included in this aid. These vehicles are essential for the repair and recovery of damaged armored vehicles on the battlefield, thus ensuring better resilience of the Ukrainian forces.

Ten Sonobot 5 unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) have been delivered. These autonomous systems are used for maritime surveillance, mine detection, and reconnaissance, thereby enhancing Ukraine's naval surveillance capabilities. Ten Ground Observer 12 ground surveillance radars have also been provided. These advanced radars improve Ukraine's ability to detect and track enemy troop and vehicle movements, increasing their vigilance and responsiveness.

Germany has also delivered 21,000 35mm armor-piercing discarding sabot-tracer (APDS-T) rounds for the Gepard/Cheetah anti-aircraft artillery systems. These munitions enhance Ukraine's air defense capabilities, crucial for countering Russian aerial threats.

To protect Ukrainian soldiers, 24,810 M92 combat helmets have been provided. These modern helmets offer increased protection against shrapnel and projectiles, thereby reducing the risk of injuries on the battlefield. Finally, Germany has delivered a first-level advanced surgical team system (already known). These mobile medical units are crucial for providing immediate care to the wounded, thereby increasing the survival chances of soldiers on the field.

The Leopard 1A5 tanks can become a major asset for the Ukrainian army as they are widely available in Western arsenals. The Leopard 1A5 is a main battle tank designed and produced by Germany, in service since 1987. Manned by a crew of four, it can maneuver and fight effectively thanks to its turret offering a full 360-degree rotation and its weaponry capable of elevating from +20 degrees to -9 degrees, allowing it to adapt to various terrains and targets.

Measuring 7.09 meters in length, 3.37 meters in width, and 2.76 meters in height, the Leopard 1A5 has an imposing yet compact silhouette for a tank of its category. Its combat weight reaches 40,000 kg, providing a good combination of protection and mobility on the battlefield.

Initially designed and manufactured in Germany, the Leopard 1A5 has been adopted by several countries, including Brazil, Greece, and recently Ukraine. These countries appreciate its proven capabilities, reliability, and versatility in various combat conditions.

This new German military aid demonstrates Berlin's determination to support Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty and freedom. The delivered equipment covers a wide range of military needs, from individual protection to advanced surveillance capabilities, as well as armored vehicles and munitions. This reinforced assistance comes at a critical time, as fighting continues to rage in eastern Ukraine, and should significantly contribute to strengthening Ukraine's defensive capabilities against Russian aggression.