The Dutch Ministry of Protection introduced plans to amass 46 Leopard 2A8 battle tanks as a part of a broader effort to revive and modernize the nation’s armored capabilities.
The primary items are anticipated to be delivered in 2027, with the complete fleet operational by 2030.
This funding, starting from €1 to €2.5 billion, was outlined within the Protection White Paper 2024, which has been with out a devoted tank battalion since 2011 as a result of protection price range cuts. The brand new tank battalion will include 500 personnel, a mix of present and newly recruited forces.
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“Tanks are important to the fight energy of our armed forces. They supply heavy firepower and safety towards enemy assaults,” mentioned State Secretary for Protection Gijs Tuinman in a letter to the Dutch Parliament. “By reintroducing the battle tank, we’re assembly NATO’s calls for for stronger floor forces, and boosting the fight power of the Dutch army.”
The choice to acquire the German-made Leopard 2A8 is pushed by operational concerns, together with the necessity for interoperability inside NATO forces. The Leopard 2A8 presents superior options comparable to heavy armor, enhanced firepower, and trendy battlefield capabilities. Furthermore, by becoming a member of Germany’s bulk buy initiative, the Netherlands can quickly safe supply of the tanks to fulfill its protection necessities.
Along with tanks, the Ministry of Protection is exploring the combination of unmanned programs into its fight operations. It will initially scale back the variety of tanks wanted from the standard 52 to 46. Nonetheless, an choice for six extra tanks stays a part of the contract, with a remaining choice anticipated by 2027. This choice will rely upon the technological progress and manufacturing timelines for unmanned fight programs.
