Leopard 2A8 tank production begins at new Norwegian facility

Production of Leopard 2A8 main battle tanks has officially commenced at a new facility in Levanger, Norway. The plant, a collaboration between KNDS and the Norwegian defense company RITEK, was constructed in 18 months to fulfill a contract for the Norwegian Army.

Under the 2023 agreement, Norway ordered 54 Leopard 2A8 tanks for a total value of 2 billion euros. While 17 tanks will be supplied directly from Germany, the Levanger facility is dedicated to manufacturing the remaining 37 vehicles. The plant is designed with a capacity of approximately 36 to 37 tanks per year, meaning the specific Norwegian order could be completed in about one year of operation.

Industry analysts suggest the facility serves a broader strategic purpose for KNDS, acting as a means to increase the overall volume and pace of Leopard 2A8 production for other European customers. If fully utilized, the Norwegian site could help raise total annual production capacity from Germany’s current 50–60 tanks to at least 90 vehicles. The facility includes specialized testing infrastructure, such as laser tracks and a diving pool, and utilizes geothermal energy for sustainable operations.