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What if Russia captures Germany’s Leopard tanks in Ukraine?

German Leopard tanks may offer a leap in offensive capabilities, but tech security considerations loom in the backdrop.

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(FILES) This file photo taken on May 20, 2019 shows a Leopard 2 A7 main battle tank (background) of the German armed forces Bundeswehr taking part in an educational practice of the "Very High Readiness Joint Task Force" (VJTF) as part of the NATO tank unit at the military training area in Munster, northern Germany. - Germany on January 25, 2023 approved the delivery of Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine, after weeks of pressure from Kyiv and many allies. Berlin will provide a company of 14 Leopard 2 A6 tanks from the Bundeswehr stocks and is also granting approval for other European countries to send tanks from their own stocks to Ukraine, a government spokesman said in a statement. (Photo by PATRIK STOLLARZ / AFP)

The transfer of Western main battle tanks to Ukraine comes with the risk of sensitive technology falling into Russian hands. 

PHOTO: AFP

Mike Yeo

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The Ukrainians may celebrate but some defence observers may be wringing their hands this week. 

The transfer of Western main battle tanks to Ukraine will greatly aid the beleaguered nation’s efforts to recapture territory from invading Russian forces, but comes with the risk of sensitive technology falling into Russian hands. 

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