Netherlands bolsters armed forces with Leopard tanks and Puma UAS fleet upgrades
The KNDS contract has the option for six more tanks, which could be exercised in 2027. (Photo: Dutch Ministry of Defence)
The procurement announcements emphasise the Dutch Ministry of Defence’s response to NATO’s call for heavier combat capabilities for land operations.
The Dutch Ministry of Defence has signed two contracts that will modernise its armed forces equipment. The MoD officially signed a contract with KNDS for 46 Leopard 2A8 Main Battle Tanks (MBT) and with AeroVironment for the additional procurement and upgrade of its Puma uncrewed aerial systems fleet.
The news that the Netherlands was going to acquire Leopard 2A8 tanks was first disclosed in October 2024. On 14 May 2025, KNDS then confirmed the signing of a contract with the Dutch procurement agency Commando Materieel en IT (COMMIT) for the procurement of at least 46 Leopard 2 A8 MBTs.
The
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![Saab to begin delivering new missile variant for RBS 70 air defence system in 2027]()
Saab to begin delivering new missile variant for RBS 70 air defence system in 2027
The Bolide 2 missile has a larger warhead than the original version as well as an aluminium nose cone, which replaces a copper version and allows for more explosive content and fragments.
-
![SAHA 2026: MKE sets its sights on the Turkish Army’s self-propelled guns]()
SAHA 2026: MKE sets its sights on the Turkish Army’s self-propelled guns
With multiple artillery platforms on display at SAHA 2026, Turkey’s defence contractors are positioning to replace the country’s older imported platforms.
-
![Saab unveils new round to defeat explosive reactive armour]()
Saab unveils new round to defeat explosive reactive armour
The HEAT 758 has a tandem warhead consisting of an initial charge which neutralises the explosive reactive armour and the main charge which penetrates the primary armour. It is fired from a standard Carl-Gustaf M4 weapon launcher and has been ordered by an undisclosed customer.
