Germany has announced the delivery of eight more previously committed Leopard 1A5 main battle tanks to Ukraine to strengthen its defence against ongoing Russian aggression.
This addition is part of a broader package of military assistance valued at approximately €28bn ($30bn) since the conflict began in 2022.
The recent inclusion of these tanks highlights Germany's support for Ukraine. The Leopard 1A5 models less advanced than the more modern Leopard 2A5s that have also been committed to Ukraine, but are available in large numbers through a joint Germany-Denmark-Netherlands programme.
Enhanced capabilities
Their deployment in Ukraine is expected to enhance its armoured warfare capabilities, providing an advantage in countering Russian advancements.
This follows Germany’s recent pledge of $8.2bn in additional support, which included military equipment such as Sea King helicopters and Leopard 1A5 tanks. Germany is also investing in enhancing Ukraine's long-term defence capabilities, as demonstrated by the ongoing training of 10,000 Ukrainian troops.
The delivery of these Leopard 1A5 tanks complements its previous military contributions and plans to deploy Leopard 2A8 tanks to Nato's eastern flank.
Military support overview
Germany's military aid to Ukraine is twofold: direct contributions from the Federal Armed Forces' stockpiles and purchases financed by the Federal Government's security capacity-building funds. The delivery of the Leopard 1A5 tanks falls under the latter category, showcasing Germany's commitment to equipping Ukraine with military technology.
In addition to the Leopard 1A5 tanks, Germany has also provided a variety of other military equipment, including: - 20 Marder infantry fighting vehicles, ammunition for main battle tanks for Leopard 2 and Leopard 1, and ammunition for Marder infantry fighting vehicles.
Strategic implications
By providing such weaponry, Germany is bolstering Ukraine's immediate defence needs and sending a strong signal of its commitment to its long-term security.
The Leopard 1A5 tanks and the package of military aid highlight Germany's partnership with Ukraine.
Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Western allies have provided support to Ukraine, including over 800 main battle tanks (MBTs) from various countries. Recent contributions include Spain's delivery of ten Leopard 2A4 tanks.
The US also announced a new defence package for Ukraine on 29 July, providing air defence interceptors, rocket and artillery munitions, and anti-tank weapons.
This package features munitions for NASAMS, RIM-7 missiles, HIMARS ammunition, various artillery and mortar rounds, precision aerial munitions, TOW missiles, Javelin and AT-4 anti-armour systems, small arms, electronic warfare equipment, secure communications systems, commercial satellite imagery services, and maintenance support.
Future commitments
Germany has committed an additional €7.1bn for military assistance in 2024, with further authorisations amounting to approximately €6bn for subsequent years. This sustained financial and military support is crucial for Ukraine as it navigates the complexities of war and defence.
As the conflict with Russia continues, such high-calibre support from Germany is vital for Ukraine's strategic defence. The deployment of these tanks not only strengthened Ukraine's military but also solidified the support from its European allies.
