Croatia has taken an important step in modernizing its military, approving the purchase of 44 main battle tanks Leopard 2A8, the most advanced model in the latest Leopard tank family.
This decision was confirmed on October 30 when the Croatian Parliament’s Defense Committee approved four new weapons programs worth 1.9 billion euros.
According to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Ivan Anušić, the package includes not only 44 Leopard 2A8s, but also 18 CAESAR Mk2 self-propelled howitzers, 420 Tatra off-road medium tactical trucks and a domestically produced drone defense system.
First Leopard 2A8 revealed
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 industry event. Croatian Ministry of Defense and military officials attended to confirm progress in negotiations and Zagreb’s willingness to participate in the new model program.
€1.3 billion package includes tanks, simulators and logistics support
According to specialized media ESUT, the contract value for 44 Leopard 2A8s is approximately 1.3 billion euros and includes not only the vehicles, but also training simulators, spare parts, maintenance kits and full logistics support.
Deliveries are scheduled to take place between 2028 and 2030 and are intended to strengthen Croatia’s military capabilities while replacing tanks previously provided to Ukraine.
Croatian industry also participates in the program
The contract also includes the participation of Croatian companies in the assembly and maintenance of new armored vehicles. Participating companies include Končar and Đuro Đaković, contributing to the production of components and support throughout the life cycle.
Additionally, this package includes full crew training, up to 15 years of technical support, and strategic parts inventory management.
Funding through European programs
The modernization of Croatian armored vehicles is funded by the state budget and the European Union Collective Defense Strengthening Fund. This strengthens the country’s integration with EU and NATO strategic initiatives.
With the introduction of the new Leopard 2A8, Zagreb takes a major leap forward in its land defense capabilities and brings its equipment in line with the latest technological standards adopted by European forces.
source: tissue (esut.de) | Photo: KNDS Group. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
