Ukraine to receive a batch of Leopard tanks by the end of summer
25 July 2024 11:31
The Netherlands and Denmark are ready to send 14 Leopard 2A4 tanks to Ukraine this summer. This was announced by Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans, reports "Komersant Ukrainian"
The used tanks, purchased last year, have been overhauled and tested by the German company Rheinmetall.
According to the minister, 12 of the 14 tanks are ready for shipment, and the last two are undergoing final tests. It is planned that the entire batch will be delivered to Ukraine at the same time by the end of the summer.
Brekelmans stressed the importance of this delivery for Ukraine, which is fighting a tough battle against the Russian aggressor.
“Ukraine urgently needs more military support given the heavy fighting on the battlefield. These tanks can play an important role in protecting the Ukrainian army from Russian troops. The Netherlands, together with its allies and partners, will continue to support Ukraine for as long as it takes. This is crucial to defend Ukraine and deter Putin’s aggression,”
– the minister said.
Leopard
Leopard tanks are one of the best known and most effective fighting vehicles in the world. Developed by the German company Krauss-Maffei in the 1970s, they have become a symbol of power and technological progress in tank construction.
The first generation of Leopard tanks was commissioned in 1965. These tanks quickly gained a reputation as reliable and effective fighting vehicles. However, the real breakthrough came with the introduction of the Leopard 2 in 1979. This tank has become the benchmark for many armies around the world thanks to its powerful gun, robust armour protection and high mobility.
The Leopard 2 is constantly being modernised, and there are several versions available today, including A4, A5, A6 and A7. Each new version brings improvements in protection, firepower and electronic systems. The Leopard 2A4 is one of the most common versions, operated by many NATO and allied countries.
These tanks are distinguished by their high accuracy, ability to fire on the move and operate effectively in a variety of climates. Their 120 mm smoothbore gun is capable of engaging targets at long range, and modern fire control systems ensure a high probability of a first-round hit. Thanks to their performance, Leopard tanks remain one of the most desirable combat vehicles for many armies around the world.
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