Sweden to Buy 44 Leopard 2A8 Tanks and Modernize 66 for €2 Billion, Expanding Army to Four Brigades

Jan 9, 2025, 10:01 AM

Sweden has signed a contract with the German-French defense equipment manufacturer KNDS to purchase 44 new Leopard 2A8 tanks and to modernize 66 existing Leopard 2 tanks, at a total cost of approximately €2 billion. The deal, which was finalized just before December 25, 2024, is part of a broader initiative to enhance Sweden's defense capabilities and to double the size of its army to four brigades. Defense Minister Pal Jonson emphasized the necessity of this investment during a visit to the Gotland Regiment P18, highlighting its importance in addressing current security challenges in Europe. The Leopard 2A8 tanks, equipped with advanced features such as a 120mm L55 smoothbore gun and a three-man turret, are expected to significantly boost Sweden's military strength.