Ukrainian brigade showcases power of Leopard 2A4 tanks
A video has surfaced on social media showcasing the combat use of the Leopard 2A4 tank by one of the Ukrainian brigades. These German tanks, renowned for their features and capabilities, have repeatedly helped repel Russian offensives and are held in high regard by Ukrainian soldiers.
The video featuring the Leopard 2A4 tank appeared on the official account of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense on platform X.
Leopard 2A4 in Ukraine
The accompanying description informs us that this tank belongs to the 33rd Mechanized Brigade of the Ukrainian Army. Members of this brigade have given interviews praising the capabilities of these German tanks.
The video shows the Ukrainian crew of the Leopard 2A4 tank advancing on Russian positions at the edge of a forest. The Ukrainians did not disclose the specific front where this event took place. Previous reports indicate that the 33rd Mechanized Brigade has operated in regions such as Zaporizhia and Donetsk.
Valuable NATO tanks in Ukraine
German Leopards are the most frequently delivered NATO tanks to Ukraine. A significant number of them are the 2A4 variants, produced in the late 1980s and early 1990s. These tanks are often described as representing the "pinnacle of tank development from the Cold War era." Over the years, they have been incorporated into the arsenals of many NATO countries, which uses modified Leopard 2PL tanks.
The original Leopard 2A4 has a 120-mm smoothbore Rheinmetall L/44 gun, two 7.62-mm machine guns, and a smoke grenade launcher. It also has a 1500-horsepower engine, which enables the crew to reach speeds of up to about 43 mph on paved roads.
According to Ukrainian soldiers, Leopard 2A4 tanks offer excellent mobility and maneuverability, along with firepower superior to most post-Soviet and some Russian tanks. This advantage is partly due to the advanced EMES 15 fire control system with thermal imaging capabilities.
