Netherlands purchases 46 Leopard 2 tanks and creates a new tank battalion
The Dutch Ministry of Defence has signed an agreement with KNDS for the purchase of 46 Leopard 2 main battle tanks in the A8 version. Delivery of the new tanks is scheduled for the period from 2028 to 2031.
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The first Leopard 2A8 tanks are due to arrive in 2028, and the last in 2031. Along with the deliveries, a new tank battalion will be created, which will include an unmanned component and provide space for 500 soldiers.
The agreement includes not only the supply of tanks, but also the necessary spare parts, special equipment, training courses and technical documentation. It is also planned to purchase four Leopard 2A8 DTV training tanks to train the personnel of the future battalion.
The contract includes an option to supply six additional Leopard 2A8s, which will be decided in 2027. The total budget of the deal is between €1 and €2.5 billion.
It should be clarified that the Dutch army currently uses Leopard 2A6s, but they are owned by Germany.
Source: Ministry of Defence
