The Ukraine mainly relies on the main battle tank built in Germany.
(Photo: AP)
Berlin Ukraine is to receive more Leopard 2 main battle tanks from western partners. Denmark and the Netherlands financed the purchase of 14 tanks that will be supplied by Rheinmetall, the Handelsblatt learned from NATO circles on Thursday. The company did not comment on this.
This support is likely to be an important sign for Ukraine, since the first German-made battle tanks are said to have been damaged during the ongoing offensive.
After initial reluctance, the western states delivered battle tanks to Ukraine, which intends to use the material to drive the Russian army out of its territory. In addition to models from the USA, France and Great Britain, Kiev mainly relies on the Leopard built in Germany. This is currently considered the strongest battle tank in the world.
According to the districts, the contracts for the new supply have already been signed. The two countries made a three-digit million amount available. The federal government, which has to agree to the export of war equipment, was also involved.
The first battle tanks are scheduled to be delivered to the Ukrainian armed forces in January next year. All 14 vehicles should have been transferred by the end of 2024, according to a person familiar with the process. By then, Rheinmetall had refurbished the Leopard 2 with the type designation A4, which the armaments company had taken over from the stocks of different user states.
Rheinmetall wants to produce in Ukraine
The Dax group Rheinmetall is thus becoming a key supplier for the Ukrainian military. In addition to Leopard 1 and 2, the company is supplying Kiev with Marder infantry fighting vehicles and ammunition, among other things. CEO Armin Papperger also agreed with Ukraine to produce tanks and ammunition in the country.
Russia now attaches great importance to Rheinmetall’s role. Ex-President Dmitry Medvedev had threatened to destroy the planned works.
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