Norway launches first Leopards 2A7 MBT production line.

Norway opens its own production of Leopard 2 tanks, with the Franco-German holding KNDS and the Norwegian company RITEK signing an agreement to organize the assembly of German equipment. This was reported by the Norwegian Ministry of Defense.
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Norwegian Bergepanzer 2 ARV and NM189 Ingeniørpanservogn engineering vehicles and leopards are prepared to be given to Ukraine, March 2023 (Picture source: norwegian armed forces)

Last year, the Norwegian military department ordered 54 Leopard 2 tanks from the German group Krauss-Maffei Wegmann, with an option for 18 additional vehicles. Previously, it was planned that all tanks would be assembled in Germany, but now we are only talking about 17 vehicles. The remaining 34 MBTs will be assembled at the RITEK plant in Levanger.

Norwegian Defense Minister Bjorn Arild Gram congratulated KNDS Deutschland and RITEK, who signed an agreement today under which tanks will be assembled in Norway for the first time in history. Additionally, he specified that 37 of the 54 Leopard 2 tanks that Norway ordered from the German Krauss-Maffei Wegmann will be assembled at the RITEK plant in Levanger.

Armed with a 120mm gun and modern sloped armor on the turret, the Leopard 2A7 is currently used by more than 3500 units across 18 nations, making it the most widely used modern tank. Offering a good balance between protection, comfort, and firepower, the Leopard is appreciated for its efficiency and technology.

It was previously reported that Norway had ordered 54 Leopard 2A7NO tanks to equip a heavy mechanized brigade in accordance with NATO requirements. However, the Norwegians declined the option for 18 tanks of the latest Leopard 2A8 version, preferring to invest in air defense systems and long-range artillery. This decision was based on the study of the experience of the conflict in Ukraine.

It is planned that Norway will receive the 54 new tanks by mid-2027.