The Netherlands and Denmark are ready to supply 14 refurbished Leopard-2 tanks to Ukraine. This was reported by the Dutch Ministry of Defence.
Earlier, both countries said they would buy the tanks from a third party and transfer them to Ukraine.
The tanks have been completely redesigned by German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall, and after months of testing, they are now ready for delivery.
The last two Leopard 2s are undergoing verification testing, and 12 tanks have already been shipped.
They are expected to arrive in Ukraine by the end of the summer, but the date has not been specified.
"Ukraine urgently needs more military support given the heavy fighting on the battlefield. These tanks can play an important role in defending the Ukrainian army against Russian troops. The Netherlands, together with its allies and partners, will continue to support Ukraine for as long as it takes. This is extremely important to defend Ukraine and deter Putin's aggression," said Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans.
The ministry also added that the tanks have "great firepower", provide good protection for crews and are fast.
- The Netherlands and Denmark discussed the transfer of these tanks back in April last year.
- Meanwhile, Spain handed over 10 refurbished Leopard tanks to Ukraine.
- And in May, Germany handed over a new military aid package to Ukraine, including 10 Leopard 1A5 tanks.
- Prior to that, the Norwegian government allocated up to $13.7 million for the maintenance of Leopard tanks in Poland. Earlier, Norway handed over eight Leopard 2 A4 tanks to Ukraine.