Norway to Acquire 54 Leopard 2 DW Tanks from Germany
The Norwegian government has signed an agreement to purchase 54 Leopard 2 main battle tanks from Germany, the Ministry of Defense announced Wednesday.
The tanks, Leopard 2 Double (2DW), will be purchased from Spain, according to the ministry. The Spain-based tanks have been in service since the early 2000s.
The Norwegian Ministry of Defense said it made the decision to acquire the tanks following a comprehensive evaluation of the available options. It has determined that the Leopard 2DW is the best solution for the Norwegian Armed Forces’ needs.
This is the first time Norway has acquired German-made armored vehicles, as Norway has traditionally purchased hardware from the US or other Nordic countries.
The acquisition is expected to cost NOK 1.8 billion ($213.51 million) and will be financed through the Norwegian Armed Forces’ budget for 2021. The first tanks are expected to be delivered by 2024.
The Leopard 2DW tanks will replace the ageing M60A3 tanks currently in service with the Norwegian Armed Forces. They will be a welcome addition to the military’s arsenal, providing enhanced firepower and improved protection for its troops.