As part of its program to strengthen and modernize its Armed Forces, Croatia is progressing in agreements with Germany for the purchase of 50 new Leopard 2A8 tanks, which are intended to replace various Soviet-origin equipment that will be transferred to Ukraine.
Like many countries in the Balkans and Eastern Europe, Croatia is actively updating its military equipment. Examples include the acquisition of new Rafale fighter jets from France and Bradley infantry fighting vehicles from the United States.
In this context, during a meeting between the Croatian and German Defense Ministers, Germany announced that Croatia would move forward with the purchase of Leopard 2A8 tanks to replace equipment designated for Ukraine. Although specific details were not provided, the transfer is expected to include M-84A4 Sniper tanks, a T-72 variant produced during the former Yugoslavia and still in service with several Balkan armies. The list also includes BVP M-80 infantry fighting vehicles, which are similar in function and capabilities to the BMP-1 family.
This type of equipment transfer to Ukraine would not be Croatia’s first. Previously, the country transferred Mil Mi-8 helicopters, which are now being replaced by UH-60M Black Hawks acquired from the United States.
Regarding the Leopard 2A8 acquisition, Croatia has taken initial steps in this direction, including signing a Letter of Intent for the provision of ammunition and spare parts to be sent to Ukraine, with financing and favorable terms for the purchase of the German tanks in return.
At the meeting, Germany’s Defense Minister stated, “The fact that Croatia is collaborating with us on the joint acquisition of Leopard 2A8 main battle tanks strengthens Germany as an industrial base and ensures common standards within NATO.”
You may also like: Due to the war in Ukraine and high Russian interest rates, Rostec may halt its arms exports
