KNDS Deutschland and automotive services firm RITEK have officially opened a new Leopard 2A8 main battle tank production facility in Levanger, Norway, boosting the country’s domestic defense manufacturing capabilities.
The plant will support Norway’s acquisition of a customized Leopard 2A8 variant under a 2023 deal worth over $2 billion.
The agreement includes up to 54 tanks, of which 15 are being produced in Germany, with two already handed over to the Norwegian Army.
The remaining 37 vehicles will be assembled at the newly inaugurated Levanger facility.
KNDS stated that the site was completed within 18 months and combines manufacturing and testing operations in a single location.
The factory is designed to produce up to 36 tanks per year and utilizes geothermal energy systems to support sustainable operations.
Integrated testing infrastructure includes laser measurement tracks, steep incline courses, and a water immersion basin to verify vehicle performance before delivery.
