Prague has signed a seven-year contract with Rheinmetall worth up to €250 million ($292 million) to provide comprehensive support for 42 Leopard 2A4 battle tanks and two Bergepanzer 3 Büffel armored recovery vehicles.
The agreement covers spare parts supply, depot and field repairs, long-term maintenance, and customer service. It also includes training programs, logistical and technical support, temporary infrastructure, and project management oversight.
To reinforce local industry, Rheinmetall will subcontract work to Czech partners, ensuring repair capability within the country and transferring key technical knowledge.
Equipment Profile
The Leopard 2A4, enhanced after operational experience in Afghanistan and the Balkans, incorporates improved protection against mines, IEDs, and anti-tank weapons. The platform measures 11 meters in length, weighs roughly 62 tons, reaches speeds above 70 kilometers per hour, and has a range of 450 kilometers. It is armed with a 120mm L44 smoothbore cannon and a 7.62mm machine gun.
The Büffel recovery vehicle, built on the Leopard 2 chassis, provides battlefield support by towing disabled vehicles, assisting in river crossings, and supplying repair tools and spare parts. Over 200 are currently fielded by 12 countries.
Growing Military Investments
The deal comes as European states increase defense spending in response to security challenges. In March, the Czech government approved a plan to boost defense expenditure to 3 percent of GDP by 2030, starting with incremental rises from 2026. Investment priorities include modernizing ground forces, improving air and missile defense, and strengthening logistics and C2 networks.
