The Ukrainian government has awarded Rheinmetall a contract for the supply of Leopard 1 systems, including 25 Leopard 1A5 main battle tanks, five armored recovery vehicles (Bergepanzer 2) and two driver training tanks.

The order, financed by Germany and worth several million euros, also includes training, logistics, spare parts, maintenance and other support services, Rheinmetall said. Delivery should take place in 2024.

Leopard 1 systems are currently undergoing a major overhaul and are being prepared for use at Rheinmetall factories.

"Rheinmetall thus continues to support Ukraine with a steady flow of tactical vehicles. The Group has previously been tasked with supplying Ukraine with a total of eighty Marder infantry fighting vehicles. Most of these are already in-country, where they have proved their mettle in ongoing operations," the company said.

Rheinmetall also said it is ready to supply 20 more Marder infantry fighting vehicles as soon as it receives the corresponding order.

"In late 2023 and early 2024, Ukraine will also be taking delivery of five Caracal airmobile-capable vehicles. On behalf of the Dutch and Danish governments, moreover, next year the Group will be supplying Ukraine with fourteen Leopard 2A4 tanks. In addition to vehicles, Rheinmetall is aiding the Ukrainian armed forces with ammunition, drones, medical facilities, etc," Rheinmetall said.