Rheinmetall to Deliver 32 Leopard Tanks to Aid Ukraine's Fight Against Russia
Germany's arms manufacturer, Rheinmetall, has secured an order from the German government for 32 Leopard tanks. These tank deliveries, scheduled for next year, aim to support Ukraine in its conflict against Russia. The Leopard 1A5 tanks up for grabs are older models, specifically 25 combat tanks, five recovery tanks, and two driving school tanks, sourced from the company's industrial stocks.
The order's total cost falls into the upper double-digit million euro range, covering training, logistics, spare parts, and required maintenance work. These renovated tanks will undergo refurbishment at Rheinmetall facilities in Unterlüß and Kassel.
This isn't the first time Rheinmetall has supplied Leopard tanks to Ukraine. Previously, the Netherlands and Denmark placed orders for 14 Leopard 2A4 tanks – also outdated but serving Ukraine from next year. Additionally, other NATO countries, including the Bundeswehr, have donated some of their Leopard tanks to Ukraine as well.
Tanks often become surplus goods after years of use and end up being sold to the industry at inexpensive rates. However, following several months of refurbishment and modernization with new technology, the vehicles are then ready for service.
Rheinmetall has a history of amending older Marder infantry fighting vehicles, with the firm's customers already using over 80 of these vehicles in Ukraine.
The arms industry, including Rheinmetall, plays a relevant role in supporting the Ukrainian Defense against Russia. This has been highlighted by Germany's substantial contract for 32 Leopard tanks with Rheinmetall.
Insights into Tank Supplies
Although no explicit figures have been provided for overall tank donations to Ukraine from Germany and NATO countries, we can gather some information regarding individual contributions:
- Germany's Contribution: Rheinmetall, in association with other German sources, has provided more than 100 Marder 1A3 vehicles and 14 Leopard 2A4 tanks, with some of these being supplied on behalf of the Dutch and Danish governments. Additionally, Rheinmetall has dispatched five Caracal air assault vehicles to Ukraine.
- Other NATO Countries: Sweden has contracted KNDS Germany to modernize and supply new Leopard 2 main battle tanks for their armed forces, set to replace older variants provided to Ukraine. This includes the renovation of 66 existing Leopard 2s and the delivery of 44 new units in the latest A8 configuration.
Rheinmetall's Role in Tank Supplies
Rheinmetall plays a significant part in the supply chain of military equipment to Ukraine, focusing primarily on tank supplies and air defense systems. The company's contributions to Ukraine include:
- Tank Supplies: Rheinmetall has delivered over 100 Marder 1A3 vehicles and provided a notable amount of Leopard 1A5 tanks, five recovery vehicles, and two driver training models. Moreover, Rheinmetall is involved in the local production of Lynx infantry fighting vehicles in Ukraine.
- Air Defense Systems: Rheinmetall provides Ukraine with modern air defense systems such as the Skynex system, equipped with AHEAD programmable air-burst ammunition. It has also offered 55 Gepard anti-aircraft tanks from the Bundeswehr for air defense operations, which have proven valuable in Ukraine.
- Logistical Support: Beyond delivering direct equipment, Rheinmetall is contributing to restoring and developing Ukraine's domestic production expertise, reinforcing the country's defense capacity over the long term. This includes establishing a joint venture, Rheinmetall Ukrainian Defence Industry LLC, and the creation of a maintenance center in western Ukraine.
In summary, although no concrete figure for total tank donations to Ukraine from Germany and other NATO countries is given, Rheinmetall plays a significant role in providing military equipment and logistical support to Ukraine's defense efforts against Russia.
