Official application submitted: Ruag pushes for export of Leopard 1 tanks

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The German arms group Rheinmetall is interested in buying them to later pass them on to Ukraine, Ruag spokeswoman Kirsten Hammerich told Swiss Radio and Television (SRF)’s “Heute Morgen” program.

Seco acknowledged receipt of the request to SRF, but did not provide any further information. During a question hour in the National Council, Federal Councilor Viola Amherd (center) said in mid-March that Seco had rejected a preliminary investigation by RUAG on the resale of the Leopard 1 tanks with reference to the regulation on measures related to the situation in Ukraine.

As Hammerich explained, RUAG is hoping for clarity by making an official request. “We would like an official decision from Seco so we can better assess business options,” she said.

The project was criticized by the SVP. “In my opinion, this is not possible, because otherwise Ukraine would receive a unilateral preference,” says SVP state councilor Werner Salzmann. This is not allowed under the law of neutrality.

Ruag purchased the used and non-operational tanks in 2016 from an agency of the Italian Ministry of Defense. With the purchase at the time, Ruag intended to prepare the vehicles for potential buyers and/or sell spare parts to potential buyers. The tanks are still in Italy.

(SDA)

Source:Blick