Tank madness - Germany and the Czech Republic want to buy almost 200 of the latest Leopard 2A8 tanks for billions of dollars

Last week we wrote that Germany was preparing to acquire Leopard 2A8 tanks. The Czech Republic has decided to join the programme.

Here's What We Know

Germany intends to spend more than $3 billion on 123 tanks, with the first batch of combat vehicles to include only 18 units worth about $565 million. Deliveries of Leopard in the 2A8 configuration will begin in 2025.

The Czech Ministry of Defense is also seeking to upgrade its fleet of main battle tanks. The defence ministry is targeting an order for 70 2A8-level combat vehicles. Jana Černochová, Czech Defense Minister, will negotiate the purchase with German companies Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and Rheinmetall.

The potential investment paves the way for the Czech Army to acquire a first-class ground platform that is in service with other countries. The Czech Republic can expect lower costs for the Leopard 2A8 and accelerated deliveries if negotiations are successful.

Czech defence officials expect the upgraded tank fleet to be worth "tens of billions of crowns" by the end of this decade. For understanding, 10 billion Czech crowns equals about $450 million.

The Leopard 2A8 will be based on the 2A7HU configuration developed specifically for the Hungarian armed forces. The new version of the tank will receive an active Trophy protection, enhanced protection against mines and anti-tank missiles, a new engine, improved optics and a 120mm Rheinmetall L55 gun.

Source: Defence News