The arrival of Leopard 2PL tanks strengthens NATO in Latvia
As part of the NATO multinational battle group, the Polish military contingent stationed at the base in Adazi, Latvia, has received Leopard 2PL tanks. The NATO group command emphasizes that their arrival significantly enhances the Alliance's regional strength. Here are the main features of these tanks.
We were provided with advance information about a forthcoming reorganisation in the NATO multinational battle group stationed 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
It has not been disclosed how many Leopard 2PL tanks have arrived in Adazi. However, the command of the NATO multinational battle group stationed there does not hide the fact that they are receiving much more modern and better 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. Cedric Aspirault of the Canadian army, which is leading the NATO allied battle group in Latvia.
Leopard 2PL. What kind of tank is it?
The PT-91 "Twardy" are tanks that were produced in the 1990s. However, they were not built from scratch but as a Polish modernisation of Soviet T-72M1 tanks. Although they are significantly better than the original, they noticeably lag behind Western designs.
This is also true for the Leopard 2PL tanks, which are the result of modernising the German Leopard 2A4 tanks. They are equipped with the smoothbore Rheinmetall Rh-120 L/44 cannon, adapted to new programmable and anti-tank ammunition at Polish defence plants. They also feature a different stabilisation system, better observation and targeting instruments for the gunner and commander, and 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.
