Slovakia Shortlists BAE Systems & Turkish Tanks, Korean, German Ones Eliminated

Slovakia has removed the German Leopard 2A8 and the Korean-Polish K2PL Black Panther from consideration in its ongoing tank acquisition process.

At a press conference, Defense Minister Robert Kalinak announced that two medium tank options are now being considered to modernize the country’s armored fleet: the CV90120 from BAE Systems Hägglunds and a Turkish medium tank of a similar class.

These models offer a significant price advantage, estimated to be 40–50% lowthan traditional main battle tanks.

According to Kalinak, key factors in the selection process include lower maintenance costs and the possibility of local production in Slovakia.

A final decision has not yet been made, as both platforms are still under development. The defense minister estimates that commissioning could take place within three to four years.

The CV90120 is compatible with Slovakia’s incoming CV9035 infantry fighting vehicles, helping reduce training and spare parts costs. The first batch of ten tanks is set to be assembled at BAE Systems Hägglunds’ facilities in Sweden, with production gradually transitioning to Slovak factories. Combat modules are already being produced locally, with parts sent to Sweden for integration.

Meanwhile, the ministry is also evaluating several Turkish light and medium armored vehicles equipped with 105mm guns, including the Kaplan MT—a joint project between Turkey and Indonesia.

Both options present opportunities for domestic industrial participation, with Turkish suppliers reportedly open to establishing local production in Slovakia.