Switzerland allows Germany to buy Leopard tanks, but bans their supply to Ukraine
The Swiss federal government has agreed to the sale of 71 Leopard 1 A5 battle tanks by Ruag MRO Holding to Germany. But with a clear warning: these tanks are not allowed to enter Ukraine.
Here's What We Know
These combat vehicles are currently in Italy - they were delivered there in 2016. The Swiss company Ruag still owns 25 Leopard 1 A5s. In 2023, Switzerland already refused to export this equipment because of fears that the tanks could end up in Ukraine, which violates the law on neutrality and the prohibition of arms supplies to countries at war.
Now, following Ruag's appeal to the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs, the government has decided that a licence is not required, as Germany is on the list of countries that are allowed to supply military equipment without special permission. At the same time, Bern made it clear that the re-export of these tanks to Ukraine is prohibited.
Leopard 1A5. Illustration: Ian Tong
Thus, Germany can use the Leopard 1 A5 for its own needs, for example, to modernise or replenish its stockpile, but Kyiv will be left out this time.
Meanwhile, in October 2024, Germany has already handed over 8 Leopard 1 A5s, 20 Marder infantry fighting vehicles, IRIS-T air defence systems and other armoured vehicles to Ukraine. And in November, Berlin sent a new aid package with ammunition for these tanks.
Source: Swissinfo
