European defense company KNDS has recently announced a significant surge in demand for its latest model of the Leopard 2 main battle tank, the Leopard 2A8, having reportedly received a total of 350 orders since its inception in 1992.
Countries including the Czech Republic, Germany, Lithuania, the Netherlands, and Norway have already placed orders for the Leopard 2A8 ahead of its highly anticipated unveiling, which is scheduled to take place in late November at the manufacturer’s facility in Munich, Germany. A spokesperson for KNDS informed DPA News that discussions are ongoing with additional potential customers, indicating further orders may be forthcoming.
The German armed forces, known as the Bundeswehr, have ordered 123 Leopard 2A8 tanks, with deliveries expected to commence in 2027. This order includes plans for an additional 75 tanks. Notably, the initial deployment of these tanks will be to Lithuania, marking Germany’s first permanent tank stationing beyond its borders since World War II. The move aims to reinforce NATO’s eastern flank amid rising geopolitical tensions.
In addition to Germany, Lithuania and the Czech Republic each secured orders for 44 tanks, with the Czech Republic also planning to acquire an additional 19 tanks in specialized roles, including engineering, recovery, bridging, and driver training variants. Norway is set to receive 54 Leopard 2A8 tanks as well.
In a related development, the Dutch State Secretary Gijs Tuinman has signed a contract for at least 46 Leopard 2A8 tanks aimed at rejuvenating the Netherlands’ tank fleet after its phasing out in 2011. Deliveries for this order are scheduled from 2028 to 2031, with an option for six additional tanks.
The Leopard 2A8 continues to uphold the standard armament of the Leopard 2, which includes a 120mm smooth-bore main cannon and two 7.62mm machine guns, supporting a four-person crew. However, the 2A8 version has been enhanced with advanced features designed to improve survivability. A key addition is the integration of the Trophy active protection system, offering 360-degree defense against various anti-tank threats, including guided missiles and drones. Additionally, the Leopard 2A8 boasts an upgraded fire control system and improved resistance to blasts, enhancing its operational capabilities on the battlefield.
