The government announced on Friday, February 3, that it had decided to purchase 54 modern Leopard 2A7 tanks for the Norwegian Armed Forces. The first new tanks are to be delivered in 2026.
The news was welcomed by Defense Chief Eirik Kristoffersen and Army Chief Lars Lervik.
– The new tanks will increase the combat power of the Armed Forces and increase the defensive capabilities. This is positive. It is also a clear signal of further strengthening of the Armed Forces, says General Eirik Kristoffersen.
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The government wants to buy 54 tanks
– This means that one of the important elements of the ongoing modernization of the army is in place. Thanks to this acquisition and the planned purchases of drones, anti-aircraft and long-range drones, in a few years Norway will have an army that is small, but also one of the most modern in Europe, says army commander Maj. Gen. Lars Lervik.
The government primarily wants to buy 54 tanks, but is also open to buying another 18 tanks. It is planned to gradually introduce tanks in the years 2026-2031. The acquisition is within the Storting cost limit of NOK 19,7 billion. The cost framework covers more than just buying tanks.
We are strengthening ties with Germany in the field of security policy
– The new tanks are of great importance to the Armed Forces and are a significant reinforcement of the Army. In today's security situation, close defense cooperation in Europe is becoming increasingly important. By buying German tanks, we ensure that Norway has tanks of the same type as our Nordic neighbors and close allies. We are also strengthening ties with Germany in the field of security policy, says Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.
– Germany is one of our main countries of cooperation in the field of defense and security policy. Purchasing and industrial cooperation with Germany builds on and strengthens the already established strategic material and industrial cooperation, says the Minister of Defence.
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Source: forsvaret/ regjeringen
Photo: Markus Malmin / Hæren
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