With the delivery of the last tanks from Germany, assigned to the 1st Armored Brigade “György Klapka” in Tata, the Hungarian Defence Forces completed earlier this month the induction process of their new fleet of 44 Leopard 2A7HU tanks. Defense Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky emphasized that the Leopard 2A7HU represents one of the most advanced combat systems in the world, complemented by Leguan armored bridge-laying vehicles and technical recovery equipment, which ensure the full operational capability of the armored units.
The Leopard 2A7HU program began in December 2023, when Hungary officially received its first units during a ceremony that marked the start of the country’s armored modernization. Subsequently, in May 2025, three additional Leopards were inducted along with the first Leguan 2HU bridge-layer, designed to deploy structures of up to 26 meters in less than five minutes, thereby expanding the mobility and logistical support capabilities of the armored brigades.
The completion of the process in December 2025 was presented as a four-decade technological leap for the Hungarian Defence Forces. General Dr. Gábor Böröndi, Chief of the Defence Staff, highlighted that modernization is not limited to vehicles, as Hungary has acquired a world-class simulation system, unique in Europe, which will allow operational personnel to train in realistic and complex scenarios. Böröndi stressed that despite the challenges posed by drones on the battlefield, the main battle tank remains a key element of land warfare, and that forces must adapt through the integration of additional defensive systems.
Minister Szalay-Bobrovniczky recalled that sustained economic performance since 2015 made it possible to finance the reconstruction of armored capabilities, noting that Hungarian taxpayers can take pride in seeing how planning, expertise, and determination have translated into a modern and robust armored force. The ceremony also included recognition of Ralf Ketzel, CEO of KMW-NEXTER, for his role in German–Hungarian industrial cooperation.
The final delivery of the Leopard 2A7HU consolidates Hungary as one of the countries with the most modern tank fleets in Central Europe, aligned with NATO standards and supported by training infrastructure and technical support that ensure long-term operational sustainability.
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