The Czech government has approved the purchase of Leopard 2A8 battle tanks from Germany to modernize the Czech army. This was stated by Defense Minister Jana Cernohova, quoted by Reuters, BTA reports.
As a NATO member, the Czech Republic will sign an agreement with the German Defense Ministry. In the first stage of the deal, the country will purchase 44 tanks worth about $1.63 billion, with deliveries planned for the period 2028-2031. An option to purchase another 14 vehicles is also provided.
In addition, negotiations are underway to acquire 19 specialized variants of “Leopard“ 2A8 in another deal, which could bring the total number of new tanks to 77.
In recent years, the Czech Republic has been actively modernizing its army with new Western weapons, including helicopters, radars, combat vehicles and F-35 fighter jets. The increased defense investment comes against the backdrop of the war in Ukraine.
Last year, the country approved the purchase of older “Leopard“ 2A4 models from the German company “Rheinmetall“. In addition, the Czech Republic has received other tanks from Germany under a program to replace equipment provided in aid to Ukraine.
Chernokhova also announced that the Defense Ministry will continue to buy small arms from the Czech manufacturer “Česká zbrojovka“. The framework agreement is until 2031 and is worth up to 4.26 billion The army will also acquire 18 light armored vehicles “Supakat Extenda” for about 44 million dollars.