Austria has begun receiving modernized Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks and Ulan infantry fighting vehicles as part of a major program designed to extend the operational life of its tracked armored fleet.The first upgraded vehicles were handed over at Jansa Barracks in Großmittel. The modernization effort began in 2023 and covers 170 tracked platforms, with completion planned by 2029.The fleet consists of 58 Leopard 2A4 tanks and 112 Ulan infantry fighting vehicles. The total cost is now estimated at €765 million, considerably higher than the original estimate of €561 million.The program is a central element of Austria’s Development Plan 2032+. Instead of replacing the entire tracked fleet with new vehicles, the country is investing in improved versions of platforms already in service.Leopard and Ulan UpgradesKNDS is responsible for the Leopard 2A4 modernization. The work includes replacing hydraulic turret drives with electric systems, restoring night-fighting capabilities, and improving fire-control and optical equipment toward standards associated with the Leopard 2A7.General Dynamics European Land Systems-Steyr is upgrading the Ulan vehicles. Its work includes improvements to electronic circuits, optics, turret electronics, and drive components.Following modernization, Leopard tanks will undergo additional integration activities at the Austrian Army Logistics Center before returning to active service. Upgraded Ulan vehicles will be delivered directly to operational units.By modernizing existing equipment, Austria aims to improve armored combat capability and reliability while avoiding the substantial financial and logistical burden associated with procuring an entirely new tracked vehicle fleet.
