Germany will approve shipment of 187 Leopard 1 tanks to Ukraine

Nearly 200 Leopard 1 tanks may be sent to Ukraine in the foreseeable future. Germany has given the green light to export the combat vehicles. This is reported by Business Insider.

Here's What We Know

According to Business Insider, the German government will officially announce the export of the tanks today, February 7. The Ukrainian Armed Forces could receive 187 Leopard 1 tanks - 88 from Rheinmetall and 99 from FFG.

In comparison with the 14 Leopard 2 tanks, which were announced for Ukraine back in January, 187 units look more impressive. But there is a nuance. And two of them at once.

Firstly, not all the tanks are in combat condition. A significant proportion of the Leopard 1 will be dismantled for parts and used for repairs. Secondly, the German government has not yet approved funding for tank refurbishment.

A decision on funding should be made within a few weeks. But the tanks themselves will have to wait. It is expected that Germany will be able to transfer the Leopard 1 to Ukraine no sooner than in the middle of this year.

Source: Business Insider