Netherlands, Denmark to Supply 14 Leopard Tanks to Ukraine
The Ukrainian army will receive 14 Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks purchased by the Netherlands and Denmark as part of military assistance by the end of the summer.
This was announced by the Dutch Ministry of Defence with reference to the words of its Minister Ruben Brekelmans.
The combat vehicles have been repaired and tested in recent months.
The Netherlands and Denmark are members of the International Tank Coalition, which aims to supply Ukraine with battle tanks.
In April 2023, the countries announced their intention to purchase 14 Leopard 2A4 tanks for Ukraine.
In June of the same year, the combat vehicles were purchased from the German defence concern Rheinmetall, which had to overhaul the vehicles before they could be shipped.
The Ministry of Defence of the Netherlands reported that yesterday and today the last two repaired Leopard 2A4s are undergoing verification tests. And the first 12 tanks have already been handed over for shipment.
The ministry added that all 14 tanks will be delivered to Ukraine simultaneously by the end of the summer.
Spare parts and ammunition will be delivered along with the combat vehicles.
‘Ukraine urgently needs more military support given the heavy fighting on the battlefield. These tanks can play an important role in defending the Ukrainian army against Russian troops. The Netherlands, together with its allies and partners, will continue to support Ukraine continuously, as long as it takes,’ said Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans.
He added that international military support is crucial for the defence of Ukraine and deterring Russia's aggression.
Back in January this year, the first two Leopard 2A4 tanks from this batch were overhauled at the facilities of the German concern Rheinmetall.
As The Gaze reported, earlier in July it became known that Spain was sending to Ukraine a new batch of military aid, which includes 10 Leopard 2A4 battle tanks.