The Czech Republic has entered a seven-year support contract with Rheinmetall to sustain its fleet of 42 Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks and two Bergepanzer 3 Büffel armored recovery vehicles.
Valued at up to €250 million ($292 million), the deal covers spare parts delivery, factory- and field-level repairs, ongoing maintenance, and customer service support. It also includes personnel training, technical and logistical assistance, temporary infrastructure, and complete project management.
Rheinmetall will collaborate with Czech industry under the agreement, awarding subcontracts to assist in repair and maintenance operations while facilitating the transfer of technical expertise.
The Systems
The Leopard 2A4, upgraded from lessons in the Balkans and Afghanistan, features improved protection against mines, IEDs, and anti-tank weapons. Measuring 11 meters and weighing about 62 tons, the tank can reach speeds above 70 kilometers per hour with a range of 450 kilometers. Its armament includes a 120mm L44 smoothbore gun and a 7.62mm machine gun.
The Bergepanzer 3 Büffel, based on the Leopard 2 chassis, supports armored units by recovering and transporting damaged vehicles, assisting in water crossings, and providing field repair equipment. More than 200 Büffels are in service across 12 nations.
Defense Outlook
Amid heightened security concerns over Russia, Prague has pledged to raise defense spending to 3 percent of GDP by 2030, beginning with a 0.2 percent annual increase from 2026. The funds will modernize land forces, strengthen air and missile defenses, and enhance command, control, and logistics systems.
