The Czech Republic will purchase 44 Leopard 2A8 main battle tanks from Germany under a recently signed agreement. The total cost of the deal is estimated at around $1.6 billion (34 billion Czech koruna). The move aims to strengthen the country’s security capabilities, particularly in response to Russia’s military actions in Ukraine.
Deliveries of the tanks are scheduled between 2028 and 2031. This step represents a key part of the Czech Republic’s plan to modernize its defense infrastructure and replace aging Soviet-era equipment.
The agreement also allows flexibility for future purchases, enabling the Czech government to acquire additional tanks based on evolving defense needs.
Last year, the Czech Republic approved the acquisition of 77 Leopard tanks as part of its ongoing collaboration with Germany. The new deal continues these modernization efforts. The country is also investing in broader defense upgrades, including 24 U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets and 246 Swedish-made CV90 armored combat vehicles.
Czech Defense Minister Jana Černochová commented:
“We continue our efforts to move away from Soviet-era weapons and enhance our defense capabilities.”
She emphasized that the new tanks will play a critical role in the nation’s military modernization process.
