Citing information released by Stine Barclay Gaasland, spokeswoman for the Norwegian Armed Forces, Norway announced on Monday, March 20, 2023, that eight Leopard 2 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) were delivered to Ukraine. Poland and Canada have respectively already delivered 14 and 8 Leopard 2A4 tanks to Ukraine.
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Norwegian army Leopard 2A4 MBT Main Battle Tank. (Picture source Norway MoD)
The Norwegian decision to donate Leopard 2A4 tanks and special-purpose tanks has been made after close dialogue with both the Chief of Defence and other European countries. The war in Ukraine is nearing a critical phase and they are dependent upon timely and substantial support. Norway will also contribute to educating and training Ukrainian tank crews in Poland, along with other allied countries.
On March 17, 2023, Norway confirmed the purchase of 54 German Leopard 2A7 MBTS to replace its old fleet of Leopard 2A4. The Norwegian army is currently equipped with 52 Leopard 2A4 of which 32 are operational and 16 are stored. Norway has also taken a decision to donate eight Leopard 2A4 tanks to Ukraine.
The Leopard 2A4 is a German main battle tank developed by Krauss-Maffei in the 1970s and first entered service in 1985. It has been widely regarded as one of the best main battle tanks of its generation, with several countries adopting the platform.
In terms of its military capabilities, the Leopard 2A4 is highly regarded for its firepower, mobility, and protection. It is armed with a 120mm smoothbore gun, which can fire a variety of ammunition types, including armor-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot (APFSDS), high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT), and high-explosive fragmentation (HE-FRAG).
The tank's mobility is achieved through its powerful engine, which allows it to reach speeds of up to 68 km/h, and its advanced suspension system, which enables it to traverse difficult terrain. The tank is also equipped with a range of advanced electronics, including a fire control system, night vision equipment, and a laser rangefinder, which give it excellent targeting and situational awareness capabilities.
In terms of protection, the Leopard 2A4 has a highly effective armor system that can withstand a variety of threats, including armor-piercing rounds, mines, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). It also has advanced active protection systems, which can detect and neutralize incoming missiles and rockets.
Overall, the Leopard 2A4 is considered a highly effective and capable tank that has seen widespread use in a variety of military operations. Its advanced technology, combined with its firepower, mobility, and protection, make it a formidable force on the battlefield.
