Finland has increased the number of armored Leopard 2R mine-clearing tanks that it plans to transfer to Ukraine.

The country’s Ministry of Defense said that now Ukraine should receive six Leopard 2-based mine-clearing tanks.

The President of Finland supported the government’s proposal and made a decision on March 23, 2023.

The transfer of these armored mine-clearing tanks was Finland’s assistance to Ukraine within the framework of international cooperation on the transfer of Leopard 2 tanks.

The first three vehicles were included in the 13th package, and an additional three will arrive as part of the 14th defense assistance package.

Along with the equipment, the Ukrainian military will also receive training related to the use and maintenance of these mine-clearing tanks.

The new defense aid package also includes heavy weapons and ammunition.

“For Ukraine, all materiel aid is vital in defending the country. We will continue our determined efforts to support Ukraine in repelling Russia’s brutal invasion,” says Minister of Defense Antti Kaikkonen.

For operational and security reasons, more detailed information on the content of the assistance, manner of delivery or schedule will not be provided.

“Both Ukraine’s needs and the resources of the Defense Forces have been taken into account when deciding on the additional assistance,” Finland representative said.

The mine-clearing tanks that Finland is transferring to Ukraine are marked Leopard 2R. They are developed on the basis of the Leopard 2A4 tank. By order of the Ministry of Defense of Finland, ten such tanks were converted.

Mine-clearing tanks are equipped with mine plows, a bulldozer bucket and an automated marking system. The combat vehicle is also equipped with a NSVT 12.7mm heavy machine gun for protection. The crew consists of two people: a driver and a commander.