Netherlands Orders 46 Leopard 2A8 Tanks

The Netherlands has signed an agreement to purchase 46 Leopard 2 main battle tanks in the latest A8 version from the company KNDS.

The Dutch Ministry of Defence reported that the tanks are scheduled to be delivered between 2028 and 2031.

“Given the current threat of large-scale conflict, the tank is an indispensable tool. And when you stand next to it, you immediately understand why. The Leopard is a powerful combat vehicle. It is the best that tank manufacturing has to offer today,” the Ministry stated.

The first new Leopard 2A8 is expected to be delivered in 2028, with the last one arriving in 2031. During this period, a new tank battalion will also be formed.

“The unit will also include an unmanned component. The battalion is currently planned to accommodate 500 servicemen,” the Ministry added.

With this purchase, the Netherlands is responding to NATO’s call to strengthen combat capabilities in the area of land operations.

In addition to the tanks, necessary spare parts, specialized equipment, various training courses, and technical documentation are also being procured.

The contract also includes an option to deliver six additional Leopard 2A8 tanks. A decision on this is expected to be made in 2027.

The total budget for the contract ranges from €1 to 2.5 billion.

The Netherlands will also acquire four Leopard 2A8 DTV training tanks, intended for a training center where personnel of the future battalion will acquire the necessary skills.

The Dutch military currently operates Leopard 2A6 tanks, although Germany formally owns them.

This year, the German army signed a number of contracts for the development of a new artillery system and power unit for the future modernization of the Leopard 2 tank.