Netherlands reinstates tank battalion with 46 new Leopards

- Tanks are essential for the operational strength of the armed forces. They possess heavy armament and provide protection against enemy fire. With the reintroduction of battle tanks, the Netherlands will bolster its armed forces. In doing so, we also fulfil what NATO is requesting of the Netherlands, - said the Secretary of State for Defence, Gijs Tuinman.

The first Leopard 2A8 tanks are expected to join the Dutch army in 2027, with the final units from the ordered batch arriving by 2030. From that point, the Dutch armed forces will again have a full tank battalion, accommodating 500 soldiers.

The Dutch authorities altered their approach to armaments following Russia's annexation of Crimea. Since then, they have entered into various contracts for new military equipment. In September, the Netherlands bid farewell to their F-16s, which are being replaced by newer F-35 fighters. There are also plans to acquire systems including NASAMS air defence systems. However, the decision to purchase tanks has garnered the most attention. In 2011, due to budget cuts, the Netherlands completely relinquished its own tanks, relying instead on leasing 18 Leopard 2A6 tanks from Germany.

The Leopard 2A8 is the latest iteration of the renowned German tank, replacing the 15-year-old Leopard 2A7. One of the key features of the Leopard 2A8 is the EuroTrophy active protection system, previously employed in American Abrams tanks. This technology is designed to neutralise anti-tank guided missiles and tank ammunition at a distance of about 30 metres by firing counter-missiles with explosively formed penetrators in their direction.

The Leopard 2A8 also features the latest optronics, communication systems, and a reinforced turret roof. Like its predecessor, it is equipped with a Rh 120/L55A1 120 mm cannon and a machine gun coupled with it. A 1,600-horsepower engine powers the vehicle.