Leopard 2 tanks during tests at the Gaiziunai military training area, near the Rukla military base, Lithuania, December 15, 2023 (AFP/Archives/PETRAS MALUKAS)
The Czech government announced on Wednesday that in a joint purchase with other European countries it would buy up to 77 German-made Leopard 2A8 tanks over the next few years.
The new tanks are to replace outdated Soviet and Russian technology, some of which has been sent from Prague to kyiv since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in early 2022.
“The joint purchase with several other European countries, including Germany, is undoubtedly advantageous,” Prime Minister Petr Fiala told reporters, without naming other partners in this transaction.
The Czechs will buy 61 tanks with an option for 16 more, he said, adding that the purchase would cost around $2.3 billion.
The Czech army will also receive 30 Leopard 2A4 tanks from Germany, in exchange for technology transferred to Ukraine, and will purchase another 15 tanks in the 2A4 version, Fiala said.
“We should start receiving the tanks (2A8) in 2027 and have 122 in total in 2030,” Defense Minister Jana Cernochova said.
“We want to have a heavy brigade as soon as possible,” he insisted.
Mr. Fiala said Ms. Cernochova would present a comprehensive plan on the purchase by the end of the year.
He assured that the government would spend two percent of gross domestic product (GDP) this year, following NATO rules.
The Czech Republic has significantly increased its defense spending since Russia invaded Ukraine.
Among its largest arms purchases since then, it should be noted the acquisition of 24 American-made F-35 fighter jets, 48 Israeli air-to-air missiles and 210 CV 90 combat vehicles. from Sweden.
© 2024 AFP
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