Norway has changed its mind about buying 18 Leopard 2 tanks and will prioritise strengthening air defences
Norway has decided not to buy an additional batch of German Leopard 2 tanks. Instead, the Scandinavian country will focus on strengthening its air defence.
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This was announced by the Chief of Staff of the Norwegian Army Lars Lervik. According to him, Norway will have enough 54 previously ordered tanks to create a mechanised brigade. Buying another 18 Leopard 2 combat vehicles is not a pressing need.
Norway wants to pay more attention to strengthening its air defence. At the same time, Lars Lerwick did not name specific systems. In addition, a tender for long-range weapons should be held soon
According to the chief of staff, the refusal to purchase an additional batch of Leopard 2 will not affect Norway's ability to fulfil NATO requirements. Deliveries of the previously ordered 54 German tanks are expected by mid-2027. In addition, Norway is considering purchasing K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzers and K10 ammunition replenishment vehicles.
Source: Breaking Defence