Croatia to Acquire Leopard 2A8 Tanks in Major Defense Modernization Effort
WARSAW, Poland โ Croatiaโs government has announced a significant step in modernizing its armed forces by signing a letter of intent with Germany to acquire up to 50 new Leopard 2A8 tanks. This acquisition is part of a broader strategy to enhance Croatiaโs military capabilities while also supporting Ukraine in its defense efforts.
The agreement comes as Croatia plans to transfer older military equipment, including used M-84 tanks and M-80 infantry fighting vehicles, to Ukraine. The arrangement was formalized during an official visit by Croatian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Ivan Anuลกiฤ to Germany on October 28, where he met with German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius.
"This is one of the largest and most significant modernization projects for the Croatian military, complementing ongoing upgrades of the Croatian Air Force and Navy," Anuลกiฤ stated. "We are at a crucial juncture in strengthening our armored forces and tank battalions."
The discussions in Berlin also highlighted burgeoning defense collaboration between Germany and Croatia. On October 29, Rheinmetall, a leading German defense contractor, announced a memorandum of understanding with Croatian company DOK-ING to establish a joint venture. This partnership aims to develop and market the DOK-ING Komodo platform, benefiting from Rheinmetallโs expertise and market access.
Croatiaโs move mirrors a wider trend among NATO Eastern European members seeking to bolster their military strength. Just last week, Lithuania announced similar plans to procure Leopard 2A8 tanks, reflecting increased regional defense initiatives in response to ongoing security challenges posed by Russiaโs actions in Ukraine. Lithuaniaโs State Defence Council has approved plans to purchase up to 54 Leopard 2A8 tanks to create a new division within its military, enhancing its armored capabilities.
As the geopolitical landscape evolves, Croatiaโs defense modernization and close cooperation with Germany signal a strategic commitment to enhance regional stability and military readiness.
