KNDS continues to expand its technological advantage in the field of main battle tank development, as we have witnessed at the Defence and Security exhibition Eurosatory 2024.

Leopard 2 A8

Continuing its tradition of the combat-proven Leopard 2 series, the Leopard 2 A-8 integrates modern technologies to meet future challenges. Indicatively, the exhibited tank features enhanced firepower, as its 120 mm L52A8 cannon delivers greater penetration and precision compared to previous models.

Regarding its level protection, the Leopard A-8’s armour has been further reinforced through the use of advanced composite armor and additional active protection modules. KNDS’ agreement with the Greek company EODH regarding the integration of the ASPIS modular protection system to all the vehicles of the French-German colossus should also be noted at this point.

Also read: EODH | Milestone agreement with KNDS for the integration of ASPIS NG into Leopard 2A8

Furthermore, the Leopard A-8 features a new thermal imaging device, enhanced navigation system, a more powerful engine and a new transmission system. In addition, the platform enters the digital era via its digital combat management system, enabling network-centric missions with other vehicles and interconnection of C4I systems.

Specifications:

• Weight: < 69 t
• Width: 4 m
• Length: 8.05 m
• Height: 2.72 m
• Engine: 1.500 hp
• Maximum speed: < 65 km/h
• Range: 400 km
• Crew: 4 
• Ground clearance: 550 mm
• Armament: 120 mm L55 A1 gun / 76 mm grenade launcher / 7.62 mm coaxial MG machine gun

Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0

The unveiled Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0 represents a significant development in the Leopard 2 series. Its unmanned turret and automatic loading system greatly reduce crew vulnerability, increasing operational efficiency at the same time. The modularity of the design allows existing Leopard 2 tanks to be upgraded to this new standard.

Specifically, the new compartmentation of the vehicle, that is, positioning the crew in the protected hull rather than the turret, along with the use of passive, reactive and active protection technologies, enhance protection against enemy fire. Moreover, the unmanned turret allows for more flexible and effective use of the tank’s weapons and sensors, as the gun can aim independently of the battle tank’s orientation, improving reaction time and combat precision.

Furthermore, without a manned turret, the Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0 can be lighter and more agile. Concerning its firepower, the Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0 is reinforced with a guided missile system which counters beyond-line-of-sight targets on the move. The remote-controlled 30 mm weapon system is considered to be quite effective against near-field and aerial threats. 

Specifications:

• Weight: < 69 t
• Width: 3.77 m
• Length: 7.95 m
• Height: 2.44 m (turret roof) / 2.84 m (PERI)
• Engine: 1.500 hp
• Maximum speed: < 65 km/h
• Range: 460 km
• Crew: 3 
• Ground clearance: 550 mm
• Armament: 120 mm L55 A1 gun interchangeable with 130 mm or 140 mm gun / Remote Control Weapon Station NATO 30×113 mm with cUAV capability / Multi-purpose grenade launcher / Multi-purpose LOS/NLOS guided missile
• Autoloader 

KNDS assesses the Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0 not only as a bridge solution until the introduction of the next-generation land combat system MGCS, but also as a decisive technological precursor to MGCS. Any Leopard 2 variant currently in service can be upgraded to the Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0 equipment status.

Also read: Ukraine | FFG is developing a Leopard repair center

The Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0 represents a paradigm shift in tank development, demonstrating how innovative technologies can significantly enhance combat power and soldier protection on the battlefield.

LEGUAN LEOPARD 2 

With its full-fledged MLC-80 bridges, this technically-mature and widely-used system offers a maximum of performance, extremely simple operation and maximum protection for the crew.

The LEGUAN LEOPARD 2 offers the mobility of the LEOPARD 2 main battle tank and a maximum of commonality in logistics. The 14 m and 26 m bridges comply with the strictest MLC 80 load carrying capacity requirements and offer potential for further expansion.

A modern, integrated measurement system ensures a safe and automatic recognition of the crossing capacity that has already been used, thus enabling the remaining bridge load capacity to be precisely calculated.

In addition to a modern and high-performance protection concept, this system offers many additional equipment features, such as a cooling system, auxiliary power generator and all-round vision gear.

Specifications:

• Weight: MLC70
• Length:14.6 m
• Width: 4 m
• Height: 4 m
• Engine: 1.500 hp
• Maximum speed: 60 km/h
• Crew: 2 (driver/commander)
• Launch time: 4 min for 14-metre bridge / 6 min for 26-metre bridge
• Remote-control driving 

According to KNDS, the Armed Forces of nine nations already rely on the superiority of the LEGUAN LEOPARD 2 today. 

The Leopard 2 has proven its worth in numerous deployments and is considered one of the most capable tanks in the world. It forms a crucial component of many nations’ land forces and will continue to play a vital role in defence for years to come, Greece included.

Also read: KNDS | Sets up unit in Ukraine

During EUROSATORY 2024, the KNDS portfolio was exhibited in a ​​3600 sq metre space, while approximately 800 of the company’s weapon systems are already operating in Ukraine or are under contract for delivery to Ukraine. Having said that, the company’s products cannot go unnoticed by either the National Guard or the Hellenic Armed Forces. 

Stay tuned to DEFENCE ReDEFiNED for the exclusive weapon system presentations at EUROSATORY 2024 we are preparing, including KNDS’s entire range of armoured vehicles.

Also read: EODH | A comprehensive upgrade package for the LEOPARD 1A5 – Photos