Croatia officially showcased its first German-made Leopard 2A4HRV tanks during the July 31, 2025, military parade in Zagreb. These tanks mark the country’s initial integration of the Leopard platform into its forces. Only two units have been delivered so far, intended solely for training purposes and ceremonial functions, rather than operational deployment. They will act as interim platforms until the anticipated arrival of up to 50 state-of-the-art Leopard 2A8 tanks starting in 2027.
The Leopard 2A4HRV is based on the classic Leopard 2A4 design from the late 1980s and early 1990s. It features a Rheinmetall 120mm L/44 smoothbore cannon, a digital fire control system, and standard optical equipment for all-weather use. Its V12 MTU MB 873 Ka-501 diesel engine allows speeds up to 70 km/h and operational range of 450–500 km. While offering basic armor protection against kinetic and shaped-charge threats, it lacks active protection systems or upgraded armor modules.
Communication systems aboard the 2A4HRV include the German SEM 80/90 VHF radio, differing from NATO-standard SINCGARS radios used in Croatia’s M-84 tanks. This older system is less interoperable with NATO communications networks, emphasizing the limited scope of the 2A4HRV’s role.
The two tanks were delivered as part of a 2024 defense agreement between Croatia and Germany. Under the deal, Croatia committed to transferring 30 M-84 tanks and 30 M-80 IFVs to Ukraine. In return, Germany agreed to supply Croatia with Leopard 2A8 tanks from 2027 onwards. The 2A4HRV units bridge the gap during this transition and offer a training foundation for Croatian crews to gain experience on the Leopard platform.
Croatia had previously pursued the Leopard series in 2014–2015 but faced budgetary constraints. Until now, its tank fleet consisted of upgraded M-84A4 “Sniper” models—enhanced T-72 derivatives with modern fire control, but still based on outdated armor standards.
The future Leopard 2A8 tanks will feature advanced armor, the Israeli Trophy active protection system, and upgraded digital sensors, bringing Croatia’s armored forces in line with NATO standards. Deliveries are expected to continue through 2030, with the €1 billion deal covering vehicles, logistics support, and infrastructure upgrades.
Although not intended for combat, the Leopard 2A4HRVs play a strategic role in Croatia’s shift from Soviet-era systems to modern Western platforms. They also symbolize a deeper integration with NATO and serve to prepare troops for a modernized battlefield environment.
