German-Slovak Leopard tank transfer finalised
A previously announced arrangement to supply Slovakia with 15 Leopard 2A4 tanks has been formalised by representatives of the two governments and Rheinmetall, which is sourcing the MBTs from its own stocks.
This arrangement forms part of the German government’s 'Ringtausch' equipment exchange programme, and allows Slovakia to transfer 30 BMP-1 infantry fighting vehicles to Ukraine.
The Leopard package includes ammunition, training and spare parts provision. The first vehicle is due to be handed over in December, with deliveries completed by the end of 2023.
Preparation work is ongoing. The property of Rheinmetall, the tanks being made available are overhauled Leopard 2A4s formerly in the inventories of various user states.
Speaking to Shephard in August when the deal was first mooted, a Slovak MoD spokesperson said the MBTs will allow the country to build ‘a fully functional tank battalion which will be a part of the heavy mechanised brigade'.
More from Land Warfare
-
European consortium submits plan for next-generation integrated UGS
Integrated Modular Unmanned Ground System (iMUGS) is part of effort under the European Defence Fund (EDF) to develop next-generation multipurpose Uncrewed Ground Systems (UGS).
-
US Army tests integration of upgraded PAC-3 MSE missile with LTAMDS
Flight trials in the White Sands Missile Range involved the detection, acquisition, tracking and engagement of an advanced Tactical Ballistic Missile.
-
What a Trump victory could mean for the defence industry
Trump claimed that the US wanted “a strong and powerful military” in his victory speech.