Sweden’s government announced on Thursday that the country will procure tanks from the German-French defense manufacturer KNDS for a total of 22 billion Swedish crowns (approximately $1.97 billion). The acquisition consists of 44 Leopard 2 A8 tanks, along with upgrades for 66 existing units, as detailed in an official statement.

“This investment is essential,” Johnson stated during an interview with public broadcaster SVT, emphasizing that the new tanks will support Sweden’s objective of expanding its military forces.

The delivery of the tanks is scheduled to commence in 2028 and will extend through 2031, as indicated in the government announcement.