Powerful Leopard: German tank long sought by Ukraine

The German-made Leopard 2 is seen as one of the best-performing tanks worldwide – Copyright AFP Fabrice COFFRINI

The Leopard, the powerful battle tank sought by Kyiv to push forward against Moscow, could have a “significant” impact.

But Ukrainian troops would need to be quickly trained up to use the sometimes complex equipment, and it would also need to be maintained. 

While European allies have sent Ukraine hundreds of modernised Soviet tanks since Russia’s invasion, Kyiv has pleaded for the more advanced Western armaments to boost its fightback against Moscow.

The German-made Leopard 2 is seen as one of the best-performing models worldwide and is widely used across Europe, meaning spare parts and ammunition could be easily sourced.

– Globally recognised all-rounder –

First produced in the late 1970s to replace the American M48 Patton and the later Leopard 1, the Leopard 2 is renowned for its firepower, mobility and sturdy armour.

As Germa