Germany gives final approval to supply Ukraine with Leopard 1 tanks
In a written statement made by the German Defense Ministry, it was claimed that the German government supported Ukraine by providing Leopard 1 A5 type main battle tanks in coordination with European and international partners against Russia’s aggressive war against international law.
Recalling that the German government gave political approval last week for these tanks to be supplied to Ukraine, it was stated that the necessary official approval steps were taken for this.
In the statement, it was stated that the German Ministry of Economy and Climate Protection, which is the official approval authority for export permits, approved the supply of up to 178 Leopard 1 A5 type main battle tanks to German arms companies at Ukraine. it depends on the necessary maintenance work to which it will be delivered.” expression was used.
The statement also noted that the repair and financing of tanks and the training of Ukrainian soldiers will be carried out in coordination with European partners.
STATEMENT BY THE NETHERLANDS MINISTER OF DEFENSE OLLONGREN
On the other hand, the Netherlands, Germany and Denmark will buy about a hundred Leopard-1 tanks and deliver them to Ukraine.
Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren said in a written statement that these are A5-type remanufactured tanks that are still in stock in the German defense industry.
It was stated that the Netherlands, together with Germany and Denmark, will buy about a hundred Leopard-1 tanks and deliver them to Ukraine.
Stating that the three countries will also supply spare parts and ammunition to Ukraine, Ollongren said: “The war in Ukraine is at a very important stage. Russia is still acting and there are signs that Russia is preparing a new offensive. That’s why it’s important to acquire main battle tanks.” He said.
Ollongren pointed out that the supply of more tanks depends on the revision process of the existing tanks in stock in the German industry.
LEOPARD TANKS WERE GIVE UP 20 YEARS AGO
The Leopard 1 main battle tank is the first main battle tank produced for the German Army after World War II.
The German Army decommissioned Leopard 1 tanks 20 years ago, but nine countries on different continents of the world still use the tank today.
From 1965 to the mid-1980s, 4,700 tanks were produced, later replaced by the more modern Leopard 2.
Germany announced on January 25 that it would supply 14 Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine. (AA)