[News Terms] Leopard 2, German Tank Deployed in Russia-Ukraine War

Over 2,000 Units Operated Across Europe
Fully Developed Tank Ready for Immediate Deployment on the Battlefield

[Asia Economy Reporter Han Seung-gon] As Germany decided to support Ukraine with Leopard 2 tanks, Russia fiercely criticized the move, saying it escalates the war to a new level. In response to Russia's stance, some argue that these tanks could change the course of the war. This is why Ukraine has been desperate to secure Leopard 2 tanks.

The development of the Leopard 2 is related to the Soviet Union (now Russia). First, the Leopard 1 was a tank developed by Germany in 1955 after World War II, together with several other countries including France and Italy. It began deployment in 1965, and many North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) member countries purchased it, recognizing it as the de facto NATO standard tank.

However, when the Soviet Union developed the T-64 tank, Germany needed a tank superior to the Leopard 1. The T-64 featured a compact engine and transmission, a 125mm smoothbore gun, and an 'automatic loading device,' reducing the crew to three. It was smaller in size and more mobile, making it a formidable threat.

As the situation rapidly evolved, Germany commissioned Krauss-Maffei in 1970 to develop a new-generation tank. Subsequently, in 1967, as part of the Leopard 1 performance upgrade, an experimental tank was produced, and in 1971, the official designation Leopard 2 was decided.

Polish Army Leopard 2 tank training scene. Photo by AFP Yonhap News

The Leopard 2 production process was not entirely smooth. The Leopard 2 project was pursued jointly with the United States in the 1970s, aiming to create a tank that could counter the Soviet T-64 and overpower all Soviet tanks. However, from the design rules onward, Germany and the U.S. frequently clashed, causing the development to stall. Ultimately, the project was abruptly canceled in 1971. Nevertheless, during this process, the U.S. developed the M1 Abrams, and Germany completed the Leopard 2.

The advantage of the Leopard 2 lies in the fact that it is a fully matured tank currently in existence. The tank has been improved in production and functionality for over a decade, resulting in fewer mobility failures on the battlefield. It uses diesel fuel, which offers high fuel efficiency and ease of maintenance. It is known that about 2,000 units are already operated across Europe. This means the Leopard 2 can be deployed immediately on the battlefield. It can travel at speeds of 72 km/h on paved roads and 50 km/h on unpaved roads. The turret uses a 105mm rifled gun, and a 120mm smoothbore gun version has also been produced. A grenade launcher is mounted for use against enemy infantry.

The Leopard 2 has been exported not only to European countries but also to NATO members such as Canada and T?rkiye. However, final approval from Germany, the manufacturing country, is required to receive support.