Croatia has taken an important step towards military modernization by approving the acquisition of 44 main battle tanks Leopard 2A8, currently the most advanced model of the latest Leopard tank family.
This decision was confirmed on October 30, when the Croatian Parliament’s Defense Committee approved four new arms programs totaling 1.9 billion euros.
According to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Ivan Anusić, the package includes not only 44 Leopard 2A8s, but also 18 CAESAR Mk2 self-propelled howitzers, 420 Tatra off-road heavy tactical trucks and an indigenous drone defense system.
First Leopard 2A8 released
On November 19, the German company KNDS, manufacturer of the Leopard 2A8, officially unveiled the first vehicle of the new series at an international defense event. Croatian Ministry of Defense and military officials also participated, demonstrating progress in negotiations and commitment to Zagreb’s new program.
The 1.3 billion euro package includes tanks, simulators and logistics support
According to the journal ESUT, the contract value for 44 Leopard 2A8s is approximately 1.3 billion euros, which includes not only the vehicles but also training simulators, spare parts, maintenance kits and complete logistical support.
Delivery is scheduled between 2028 and 2030 and will strengthen Croatia’s military capabilities as a replacement for tanks previously transferred to Ukraine.
Croatian industry also participates in the program
The contract also includes the participation of Croatian companies in the assembly and maintenance of the new armored vehicle. The companies involved include Končar and Đuro Đaković, which will contribute to component manufacturing and support throughout the life cycle.
The package also includes full crew training, up to 15 years of technical support and strategic parts stock management.
Financial support from European programs
The modernization of Croatia’s armored car fleet will be financed by the state budget and the European Union’s collective defense reinforcement fund. This will strengthen the country’s integration with the EU and NATO strategic initiatives.
With the introduction of the new Leopard 2A8, Zagreb will significantly improve its land defense capabilities and will be equipped in line with the latest technological standards adopted by European militaries.
source: tissue (esut.de) | Photo: KNDS Group. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
