TATRA DEFENCE further strengthens its position within the European defence industry through a strategic partnership with KNDS Deutschland. The companies have signed a contract for the production of hulls for the LEOPARD 2 A8 main battle tank, one of the most advanced armoured platforms in service today.
The contract covers the production of 150 hulls, with an option for up to 300 additional units. Manufacturing will take place in the Czech Republic, where TATRA DEFENCE will be responsible for hull welding, technological processes and quality control.
TATRA DEFENCE’s involvement in the LEOPARD 2 A8 programme represents a significant strengthening of the Czech defence industry’s role in Europe. The project brings advanced know-how transfer, new production technologies, expanded manufacturing capacities and the creation of new jobs in the Moravian-Silesian Region.
The cooperation with KNDS Deutschland builds on a long-term partnership based on trust and technical expertise. The LEOPARD 2 A8 programme, joined by the Czech Republic alongside other European countries, stands as a strong example of effective European defence cooperation.
“Our strategic partnership with KNDS Deutschland further confirms TATRA DEFENCE’s ability to contribute to Europe’s most advanced armoured platforms. At the same time, it opens new opportunities for long-term cooperation on future projects,” said Tomáš Mohapl, CEO of TATRA DEFENCE VEHICLE.
“TATRA DEFENCE is a strong and highly competent partner. Our ambition is not only to deliver for Germany and the Czech Republic, but to establish a long-term manufacturing base that strengthens European defence capabilities,” added Ralf Ketzel, CEO of KNDS Deutschland.
Building on this project, the partners plan to expand cooperation to additional KNDS platforms, including the LEGUAN bridge-laying system, in which the Czech Armed Forces have expressed interest. Cooperation with KNDS France will also be further intensified, particularly in the area of the TITUS 6×6 wheeled vehicle and other defence systems.
For more information on this cooperation, please refer to the official press release of KNDS Deutschland
https://knds.com/en/press-releases/tatra-defence-and-knds-deutschland-jointly-strengthen-czech-defense-industry.
