Ukraine has received a significant boost in its ongoing battle against Russia’s aggression with the addition of Cold War-era German battle tanks. Germany recently dispatched 10 decommissioned Leopard 1A5 tanks to Ukraine, a move seen as strengthening Ukraine’s defence capabilities. These tanks, designed by Porsche and manufactured by Krauss-Maffei in West Germany, have a storied history. They entered service in 1965 and were last deployed by the German army in 2000. The Leopard 1A5 variant, dating from the 1980s, brings enhanced capabilities to Ukraine’s military.
The decision to send these tanks came after the German government approved their donation to Ukraine in February. Over 100 more are expected to follow suit once they undergo necessary refurbishments. Although these tanks may be considered relics of the past, they offer Ukraine several advantages.
One notable feature of the Leopard 1A5 is its night-vision capability, providing an edge in low-light combat scenarios. The tank is also equipped with a weapons stabilisation system, allowing for more accurate targeting during movement, a critical factor in modern warfare. Furthermore, it has the unique ability to be driven backward, a manoeuvre unavailable to many older tanks currently in use by Ukrainian forces. These characteristics make the Leopard 1A5 a valuable addition to Ukraine’s military arsenal.
Brig. Gen. Andreas Marlow, responsible for overseeing Germany’s training program for Ukrainian troops, emphasised the tank’s strengths. He noted its user-friendly nature, making it easier for Ukrainian crews to master, maintain, and repair compared to more modern counterparts like the Leopard 2A6. Ukrainian tank commanders echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of professionalism over a tank’s age.
Christian Mölling, a military expert from the German Council on Foreign Relations, affirmed the Leopard 1 tanks’ worthiness, dispelling doubts about their effectiveness. This delivery marks a step forward in Germany’s commitment to Ukraine’s defence. Ukrainian tank crews have been intensively trained in Germany on the Leopard 1A5 and other critical weapon systems since February, dedicating six days a week for six weeks to mastering these assets. These efforts have resulted in the training of approximately 6,300 Ukrainian troops, a significant stride toward achieving Germany’s 2023 goal of training 10,000 Ukrainian soldiers. This initiative aligns with a broader European Union commitment to train 30,000 Ukrainian soldiers by the end of 2023, highlighting the international community’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty.
In the face of Russia’s ongoing unprovoked invasion, which approaches its one-year mark, Ukraine’s acquisition of these tanks and armoured vehicles becomes especially significant. The conflict has primarily centred on the eastern Donbas region, where heavy armour can significantly impact the outcome. With these additions, Ukraine is better equipped to make strides in a conflict that has been marked by its intensity and endurance.
As Ukraine fortifies its defence capabilities, it remains committed to safeguarding its sovereignty and resisting external aggression. The delivery of these Cold War-era tanks stands as a testament to international solidarity and Ukraine’s determination to protect its territorial integrity against all odds.
