Leopard 2A4 in the Kherson Region and the Debate Over Its Impact
Reports from the American Defense News portal claimed that Ukrainian forces in the Kherson region had deployed Leopard 2A4 tanks. Concurrently, the German newspaper Die Welt indicated that Germany was not prepared to approve sending the Leopard 2A4 tanks requested by Ukraine’s leadership, a decision associated with Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal.
Analysts suggested that the tanks seen in Ukraine might have come from Spain. The Spanish armed forces historically fielded a substantial fleet, including 108 Leopard 2A4 tanks and more than 200 Leopard 2Es. In theory, Poland could consider deliveries aimed at phasing out German tanks in favor of American Abrams. Italy was also discussed as a potential contributor, according to Maxim Leontiev, a former deputy head of the Main Armored Directorate in Russia’s defense ministry and a reserve Major General, speaking to socialbites.ca.
Historical notes position the Leopard 2A4 as a notable but aging platform. It was a standout project for the German defense industry after World War II, with a total production of about 3,200 units. The Bundeswehr currently operates several variants, primarily Leopard 2A5 and 2A6, with around 225 vehicles in service. Roughly 78 Leopard 2A4 units remain in storage, reflecting the model’s long service life and the push toward more modern configurations such as the 2A7 and ARV BPz-3 Buffel.
In expert assessments, the 2A4 is not considered outstanding when compared to some of today’s leading battle tanks. It lags behind modern machines like the Israeli Merkava Mk 4M, the American M1A2 SEP Abrams, and the Russian T-90M Breakthrough. Within Germany itself, the Leopard family has seen a preference for newer models, with the Leopard 2A6M taking precedence for many years.
Ukraine also possesses its own Oplot tank, noted for its high quality but limited numbers. The German Leopard 2A4 is unlikely to singlehandedly alter the strategic picture, given its small quantity. Still, it stands as one of the more capable assets in Kyiv’s arsenal.
That assessment comes from Konstantin Belousov, a military expert and former tanker, who described the Leopard 2A4 as one of the more potent, advanced weapons currently available to the Ukrainian forces. In contrast, Serey Myagkov, a military historian and broadcaster, cautioned against underestimating the German tank’s potential.
According to Myagkov, the Leopard 2A4 remains a capable combat platform despite its age. It carries a 120 mm smoothbore cannon and benefits from stabilization that enables accurate firing on the move. The vehicle weighs about 55 tons, delivering highway speeds above 70 km per hour and a range exceeding 500 kilometers without refueling. Its frontal armor measures about 480 mm, with side armor around 250 mm, capable of resisting antitank grenades and artillery shells. These characteristics contribute to its reputation as a formidable field asset.
The tank also features an EMES-15 automatic fire control system, designed to process substantial data for precise firing across multiple modes. One notable attribute is the ease of aiming and engaging targets, where operators can mark a target and execute a shot under the system that emphasizes simplicity. The optics include a combined laser and stereoscopic rangefinder, which accurately gauges distance and target reliability. When necessary, the tank commander can assume direct control of fire. Night operations benefit from electro-optical observation devices, enhanced by active infrared systems that help locate and engage targets with accuracy.
Training remains a key question for Ukrainian crews. The Leopard 2A4 control scheme differs significantly from that of legacy T-72, T-64, and T-80 tanks accustomed to by Ukrainian forces. Some observers note that Ukrainian crews may not operate the Leopard 2A4 at peak 100 percent efficiency immediately. Yet the broader consensus suggests that with time and resources, NATO allies can facilitate the necessary training to integrate this platform into Ukrainian operations.
In sum, the Leopard 2A4 is viewed as a potent asset in Kyiv’s inventory, even as experts acknowledge its limitations and the need for ongoing training and logistical support. The discussion underscores a broader truth about modern tank warfare: while a single tank model offers advantages, sustained impact hinges on trained crews, robust supply chains, and coordinated strategies across allied forces.
Attribution: insights from military analysts and media sources cited in discussions about the Leopard 2A4 and its role in Ukraine.