Czech Republic Intends to buy Leopard 2A8 with Germany

The Czech Republic has expressed interest to join an emerging push by Germany to upgrade its fleet of Leopard 2 main battle tanks to the latest A8 configuration.

Germany’s Ministry of Defense wants to purchase 18 Leopard 2 A8 main battle tanks for $565 million to replace the Leopard 2 A6 surrendered to Ukraine. In the context of this, other partner nations are invited to join this procurement. The procurement could grow over time into a multibillion-euro deal for up to 123 copies.

"The Czech Republic's entry into a German treaty is a big step towards a turning point," said Defense Minister Boris Pistorius. “Furthermore, Germany is living up to its role as the leading nation in the tank coalition. That way the gaps can be filled again.”

Leaders in Prague have designated defense minister Jana Černochová the point person to negotiate a Czech buy of the weapons, made by Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) and Rheinmetall, the defense ministry said in a May 24 statement.

“From the joint procedure with Germany, the Czech side promises a significant price reduction, shorter deliveries and the provision of adequate logistical support,” the statement reads.