Light tanks for Slovakia – cost-effective alternative or false economy?
The CV90120-T, currently being considered as a replacement MBT by Slovakia. (Photo: BAE Systems Hägglunds)
Slovakia is currently considering replacing its Soviet era main battle tanks (MBTs) with lighter alternatives. However, the lower cost of these platforms may prove to be a false economy if they cannot compete with true MBTs.
At a press conference on 23 September, the Slovak Defence Minister Robert Kaliňák gave an update on Slovakia’s replacement MBT programme. Kaliňák confirmed that the Slovakian Army is no longer looking to procure traditional MBTs; instead, it is considering the procurement of lighter alternatives.
Two options were mentioned as being in contention: the CV90120-T, which Shephard has already reported on, and Otokar’s Tulpar Light Tank. This would appear to confirm that the Leopard 2A8, KF51 Panther and K2 Black Panther are all out of the race.
Between the two options, the CV90120-T is the more likely candidate. Slovakia
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Land Warfare
-
![World Defense Show 2026: Turkish and European industries will cooperate, says Aselsan boss]()
World Defense Show 2026: Turkish and European industries will cooperate, says Aselsan boss
Aselsan was formed 50 years ago in response to difficulties Turkey was facing in sourcing major systems internationally. While some challenges still remain, company president Ahmet Akyol believes a rapprochement is possible.
-
![World Defense Show 2026: Russia reveals details of new loitering munition]()
World Defense Show 2026: Russia reveals details of new loitering munition
The Kalashnikov RUS-PE cannister-launched man-portable loitering munition was displayed as a model at World Defense Show 2026 with a company official telling Shephard it was “in service and in low-rate initial production”.
-
![World Defense Show 2026: MARSS displays new Nation Shield air defence C2 system]()
World Defense Show 2026: MARSS displays new Nation Shield air defence C2 system
Nation Shield is the latest iteration of the MARSS C2 system and is designed to provide C2 further forward along with more capable air defence.
