The division will likely include up to 20,000 troops and is estimated to cost 200 million euros ($220 million) annually. Lithuania plans to acquire the tanks to equip a new military division. “Leopard adaptability is the best because all combat support vehicles (excavators, engineering vehicles, bridges) are on the same platform, which ensures good compatibility, facilitates logistic supply, and preparation of mechanics,” he added. The minister said the other two tanks did not meet all the “operational requirements raised by the Defense Headquarters of the Lithuanian Army” or “met them in part.” Most ‘Adaptable’ Among the Threeĭuring the analysis of what tank to buy, the Lithuanian army “assessed all possible threats and the necessary capabilities to counter such threats,” Anusauskas explained. In comparison, the Abrams is operational with the armed forces of the US, Poland, Taiwan, and some Middle Eastern countries, while the Black Panther is used by the South Korean and Polish militaries. This will ensure “high interactions and compatibility with military units of Lithuanian partner countries, especially allies deployed in Lithuania,” the minister said. The Abrams’ cost to operate is one and half times higher than that of the Leopard, and the latter is operational with the armed forces of 23 countries, including 14 NATO countries. “The main evaluation criteria on which the decision was made were cost and maintenance costs, operational environment, mobility, protection, adaptability, protection, firepower, and connectivity,” the post said. EvaluationĪnusauskas explained in a Facebook post why the Leopard tank was chosen. “The details are a matter for the future because sustainable financial sources are needed,” he said. The country plans to sign a letter of intent for the purchase this week, Lithuanian National Radio and Television quoted defense minister Arvydas Anusauskas as saying on Monday. Lithuania has chosen the German Leopard tank to arm its armed forces over the American Abrams and the South Korean Black Panther.

Us air force using tanks