Poland bolsters NATO defences in Latvia with Leopard 2PL tanks
As part of the NATO multinational battle group, the Polish military contingent stationed at the base in Ādaži, Latvia, has received Leopard 2PL tanks. The NATO group command emphasizes that their arrival significantly strengthens the Alliance's regional capabilities. Here are the main features of these tanks.
We were provided with advance information about the forthcoming reorganization of the NATO multinational battle group based in Latvia. According to the plans, the Leopard 2PL tanks will replace other Polish machines that have been there so far, specifically PT-91 "Twardy" tanks.
Leopard 2PL tanks have arrived in Adazi
The number of Leopard 2PL tanks that arrived in Ādaži has not been disclosed. However, the command of the NATO multinational battle group there acknowledges that they are receiving much more modern and advanced tanks. Emphasis is placed on stronger armour, enhanced mobility, and generally higher technological advancement compared to the PT-91 "Twardy."
“The presence of Polish Leopards is a clear signal that the multinational brigade in Latvia is united and ready to defend against any threat,” said Col. Cédric Aspirault of the Canadian Army, leading the NATO allied battle group in Latvia.
Leopard 2PL: What kind of tank is it?
The PT-91 "Twardy" tanks were produced in the 1990s. However, they were not built from scratch but a Polish modernization of the Soviet T-72M1 tanks. Although they are significantly better than the original, they noticeably lag behind Western designs.
This also applies to the Leopard 2PL tanks, which resulted from the modernization of the German Leopard 2A4 tanks. They are equipped with the smoothbore Rheinmetall Rh-120 L/44 cannon, adapted for new programmable and anti-tank ammunition at Polish defence plants. Additionally, they feature an improved stabilization system, better observation and targeting instruments for the gunner and commander, improved armour, and fire and explosion suppression systems.
The Leopard 2PL, weighing nearly 60,000 kg, has an engine producing 1,500 horsepower and can reach speeds of over 60 km/h.
