Spain sent a new shipment of military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine yesterday. The delivery, consisting of various equipment and vehicles, including 4 Leopard 2A4 tanks previously committed by the Spanish government to Kyiv, is expected in addition to the Leopard 2s previously shipped to Ukraine. This new aid that will arrive in Poland at the beginning of August will contribute to strengthening the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
The mission departed from the port of Santander in northern Spain.
The Leopard 2A4 is an iconic battle tank known for its reliability and power. Designed in Germany, it is currently used by several countries, including Austria, Canada, Chile, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Greece, Indonesia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Switzerland, Sweden, Slovakia, Spain, Turkey, and Ukraine.
Weighing approximately 62,000 kg in combat conditions, the Leopard 2A4 can reach a top speed of 72 km/h on the highway, with an impressive range of 500 km. Equipped with a 120mm/L55 smoothbore gun, a coaxial 7.62mm machine gun, and a 7.62mm anti-aircraft machine gun on top of the magazine hatch, the Leopard 2A4 is armed to engage a variety of targets effectively on the battlefield.
Its standard-spaced multi-layer armor offers enhanced protection over the forward turret, and the interior of the turret is fitted with anti-splinter linings to protect the crew from potential explosions. The tank is also equipped with infrared night vision and an NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) protection system, allowing the crew to perform operations efficiently even in challenging and hostile conditions. The Leopard 2A4 is operated by a crew of four.
The Ukrainian armored vehicle fleet will be further expanded with this new shipment. The number of Leopard 2A4 tanks shipped to Ukraine will increase from 47 to 51 units. It remains to be seen how the Ukrainian army will use these main battle tanks in its ongoing operations. In addition to the Leopard tanks, the shipment includes ten M-113 TOAs armored vehicles and ten Spanish Navy trucks.
This delivery also considered medical support: three civilian ambulances and one armored BMR ambulance will be distributed to various military hospitals in Ukraine. On July 23, 2023, another significant milestone was achieved with the arrival of a field hospital in Poland. This highly specialized medical team will provide vital assistance to those affected by the conflict.
Alain Henry de Frahan
