The UK has promised to supply Ukraine with 14 tanks of the Challenger-2 series. Washington plans to deliver about 100 Straker armored fighting vehicles, two US officials said Thursday; However, the US does not want to send its M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine.
This is because these tanks require constant maintenance and usually require special fuel to run. Military experts say Leopard-2 is relatively easy to maintain and supply.
Minna Allander, research fellow at the Finnish Institute of International Affairs, said, ‘Leopard tanks are in Europe. Several European countries use these tanks, and these tanks are ready for delivery. Shipping them to Ukraine is easy. Maintenance will also be easy. They also have spare parts in Europe, so training Ukrainians will be easier.’ Sources: New York Times and BBC
