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Denmark and the Netherlands have agreed to purchase 14 Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks for Ukraine in a deal worth around €165 million (AU$268 million).
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The third-generation German main battle tanks will undergo refurbishing before being delivered to Ukraine as soon as possible in early 2024.
Leopard 2 A4 tanks were originally developed in the 1970s, built by KMW and armed with a 120mm smoothbore gun developed by Rheinmetall, as well as carrying a 7.62mm machine gun.
The new additions are hoped to provide firepower, protection, and speed on the battlefield for Ukraine.
Netherlands Minister of Defence Kajsa Ollongren said that the people of Ukraine are continuing their fight against the Russian aggressor and that their determination is a strong motivation for the Netherlands to continue its unwavering provision of military support.
Ukrainian and European security are inextricably linked, she said.
The Netherlands has also announced it will cooperate in the €130 million joint purchase of 155mm artillery ammunition with the European Defence Agency, as well as a €130 million joint purchase of equipment with Germany for the sustainment capability of Ukraine.
“The ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine must be met with resolve and further commitment of military support by allies and partners to bolster Ukraine in their heroic resistance against the illegal and unprovoked Russian invasion,” according to a joint statement from the Netherlands and Denmark ministers of defence.
“We fully support Ukraine’s efforts to defend itself and reclaim its territorial integrity.
“The Netherlands and Denmark announce our intention to jointly acquire, refurbish, and donate 14 Leopard 2A4 tanks for Ukraine following our successful collaboration with Germany on the supply of at least 100 Leopard 1A5 tanks.
“The Leopard 2 tanks will be supplied to Ukraine from early 2024, as part of our long-term commitment to Ukraine.
“The estimated cost of €165 million will be equally divided between our nations. In this way, we will jointly take part in the ‘Leopard 2 coalition’, supported by many partners and allies.
“Our two nations will continue to explore other possible areas for joint procurement of additional capabilities with the aim of supporting Ukraine. We are determined to support Ukraine for as long as it takes. Ukraine must be able to defend itself against Russia’s invasion.”
