In a statement published on May 24, 2023, the Czech Ministry of Defense announced that it has authorized Defense Minister Jana Černochová to negotiate the possibility of joining Germany in the purchase of the new Leopard 2A8 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs). The Czech Republic Army is thus poised to acquire a state-of-the-art ground platform, widely used by European armies and compatible with other NATO forces. By joining forces with Germany, the Czech Republic anticipates significant cost reductions, expedited deliveries, and assured logistic support.
The proposed Leopard 2A8 version will be among the best available in the global market. Should the Czech army decide to procure these tanks along with Germany, it would represent a significant advancement over current ground equipment (T-72M4CZ and Leopard 2A4). The army praises the technical parameters and capabilities of the tank. “The Leopard tank best meets the requirements of the Czech Army for a modern tank available on the current market, with sufficient destructiveness, mobility, and a high degree of crew protection. It is also a tank used by several NATO armies and does not need further development,” says Colonel Ján Kerdík, Director of the Ground Forces Development Department.
The Czech Ministry of Defense will now officially contact representatives of the German Ministry with a request to begin negotiations on the conditions under which the Czech Republic could join the purchase planned by Germany. From available information, it appears that other NATO member states are also considering a similar approach.