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Bundeswehr is investing 25 billion euros in tank soldier strength!
The federal government plans to produce Leopard 2 tanks in Görlitz by 2026 in order to set up and modernize the Bundeswehr.
Bundeswehr is investing 25 billion euros in tank soldier strength!
The debate about tank procurement for the Bundeswehr is gaining momentum. Amid the geopolitical tensions fueled by the Ukraine war and Russia's aggressive foreign policy, the black-red federal government is planning to invest heavily in military equipment. A total of 25 billion euros are to be spent on the procurement of up to 1,000 Leopard 2 tanks and up to 2,500 GTK Boxer wheeled armored vehicles Mercury reported. Special priority is given to national manufacturers, which can be seen as a positive signal for the domestic industry.
Production of the Leopard 2 tanks is carried out by KNDS Germany in Munich, while Rheinmetall from Düsseldorf is responsible for the GTK Boxer. With the aim of meeting NATO requirements and setting up seven new combat brigades by 2030, the pressure on the arms industry is increasing further. There are currently 310 Leopard 2 and 350 Puma infantry fighting vehicles in the Bundeswehr, but the condition and availability of these vehicles are not optimal.
The Leopard 2 A8: A step into the future
A highlight of the new purchases is the Leopard 2 A8. This modern variant promises not only a refresh of the tank force, but also a variety of technical improvements. Originally, 18 Leopard 2 A6 tanks were to be replaced by the new models, which were delivered to Ukraine. The framework contract with KNDS Germany was signed on May 25, 2023, and the first 18 tanks are scheduled to be delivered between 2025 and 2026. Another 105 Leopard-2 A8 tanks will follow by 2030, at an estimated cost of 2.93 billion euros, financed from the individual plan 60, as Agency X reported.
The Leopard 2 A8s feature a modern fire control system, a powerful 120mm L55 smoothbore cannon and robust composite armor. At the same time, the Bundeswehr is receiving support in the further development of the tanks in order to integrate future-oriented technologies. Among others, the Bundeswehr commissioned KNDS, Rheinmetall and Hensoldt to develop a new type of protection system as well as performance-enhancing engines and the new 130mm ammunition. These special measures were taken by Hard point explained.
Setting up production capacities
Production capacities are also being expanded to meet increased demand. The managing director of KNDS Germany, Ralf Ketzel, emphasized that only 40 to 50 Leopard tanks can currently be manufactured in Munich-Allach per year. From 2026, however, a factory in Görlitz is to be converted for production. Work is also underway on a new production and maintenance facility in Flensburg-Handewitt. All of this is done with the aim of ensuring long-term supplies for the Bundeswehr, while NATO encourages Germany to further strengthen itself militarily.
These crucial developments show that the federal government is on the right track to strengthen the country's defense and security interests. The plans could prove to be the key to a modern and powerful armed force that is fit for the challenges of the future.