The Leopard 2A8 is the latest evolution in the Leopard 2 family of main battle tanks, developed by German companies KMW and Rheinmetall. This modern tank is equipped with a 120mm/L55 smoothbore gun capable of firing a variety of ammunition, including a programmable DM11 for precision strikes. The Leopard 2A8 also has an advanced protection system that includes next-generation multi-layer armor and Israel's Trophy Active Protection System (APS), which provides effective protection against anti-tank missiles. The tank boasts impressive mobility thanks to a 1600-horsepower engine that allows it to reach speeds of up to 70 km/h and overcome various obstacles, with a range of 450 kilometers.
In terms of crew protection and safety, the Leopard 2A8 is equipped with reinforced armor, particularly around the turret and hull, to increase its resistance to mines and other modern threats. Its advanced fire control system ensures exceptional accuracy even while moving, and its optical systems, such as the third-generation thermal imager, provide enhanced visibility in adverse conditions. In addition, this tank is equipped with an anti-nuclear, biological and chemical defense system, which ensures the survival of the crew in an aggressive environment.
Lithuania seeks to create a powerful land unit capable of meeting the growing security needs of the region. In July, Kaščiūnas talked about strengthening the heavy combat capabilities of the Lithuanian army, mentioning the possible purchase of tracked infantry fighting vehicles in addition to the Leopard 2. However, he also noted that the number of combat vehicles ordered will directly depend on available financial resources.
The Leopard 2 A8, the latest version of the famous German battle tank, was presented to the public for the first time during the Eurosatory 2024 exhibition. Minister Kaščunas confirmed that the platform for equipping the Lithuanian forces will undoubtedly be the Leopard.
At the same time, Lithuania is looking to increase its military arsenal by acquiring other vehicles and systems, including Boxer armored personnel carriers (known as Vilkas in Lithuania) and air defense systems. However, the current priority remains the creation of this tank battalion in close cooperation with Germany.
Negotiations on the contract for these tanks are proceeding at a rapid pace. Kaščiūnas noted that the National Defense Council of Lithuania will meet before the end of October to make a final decision on this acquisition project. The minister also hinted that negotiations with the KNDS consortium responsible for Leopard production have already advanced. If the Council gives the green light, the contract can be signed as early as November 2024.
Cooperation with Germany consists of two main aspects. First, the Lithuanian tank battalion will be structured in the same way as the German army, with 44 tanks divided into three companies. With the addition of a small reserve, Lithuania's order will amount to about 50 tanks, the number of which was previously discussed during preliminary negotiations. Secondly, Lithuania will acquire a modernized version of the Leopard 2 A8, identical to the one that will be in service with the German tank battalion.
On the German side, the tank battalion of the fighting force brigade, which is expected to reach full combat capability by 2027, will also be equipped with Leopard 2 A8 tanks, with deliveries starting in 2025. This battalion will be equipped with 44 Leopard 2s.
Thus, by 2030, at least 94 Leopard 2 A8 tanks are expected to be deployed in Lithuania, forming a significant defense capability in coordination with Lithuanian and German forces. This strategic deployment is particularly critical in a sensitive area: the Suvalk Corridor, a narrow strip of land that connects the Baltic states to the rest of Europe and separates Belarus from the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad. This region is a crucial point in NATO's defense against potential threats from Russia.
By strengthening its military capabilities with state-of-the-art equipment such as the Leopard 2 A8, Lithuania aims to increase its defense autonomy while strengthening its integration into NATO's military structure. This project reflects the country's desire to adapt to new security realities and readiness to respond effectively to any potential escalation of regional tensions.