Slovakia is revisiting its military modernization strategy, with Defence Minister Robert Kaliňák confirming that the country is considering alternatives to the initially proposed Leopard 2A8 main battle tanks. The consideration of CV90120-T light tanks or fire support vehicles comes in response to the high costs associated with acquiring fully-equipped main battle tanks. This shift in focus reflects both budgetary constraints and operational objectives linked to NATO commitments.
Slovakia has committed to enhancing its defense capabilities, including the creation of a mechanized brigade, which involves replacing its aging fleet of tanks. The country’s current inventory includes approximately 30 obsolete T-72M1 tanks and 15 Leopard 2A4 tanks received from Germany under a program to support Ukraine. Slovakia’s goal is to expand its tank fleet, which currently consists of only one battalion, and to create a second battalion to improve its operational readiness. The Ministry of Defence aims to increase the number of tanks from 30 to 52 vehicles, which would require a total of 104 combat tanks to meet NATO’s operational requirements.
The initial plan involved the acquisition of over 100 Leopard 2A8 tanks as part of a joint initiative with the German Ministry of Defence. However, the estimated €2 billion cost for acquiring such a large number of tanks, with each unit priced at approximately €25 million, has raised concerns about the financial feasibility of the program. These financial challenges have prompted Slovakia to reconsider its options, and the CV90120-T, a light tank, has now emerged as a viable alternative.