KNDS unveils latest adaptation of Leopard 2 tank model
Enhanced safety for the crew due to a remotely operated turret - that's what manufacturer KNDS assures with the latest Leopard 2 model, set to debut at a weapons expo, just like a firearm that's "more potent than all competing artillery systems."
German-French tank manufacturer KNDS is unveiling a fresh iteration of the Leopard 2 combat tank at the Eurosatory arms fair. This updated version incorporating advanced tech will be showcased at the event north of Paris, as per the company's declaration. The new Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0 model boasts an unmanned and remotely controlled turret, as stated. Guns ranging from 120 to 140mm caliber can be fitted there and swiftly interchanged.
KNDS is a fusion of German tank manufacturer KMW and French defense company Nexter. The company is also keen on speeding up production of the highly advanced Land Combat System MGCS ("Main Ground Combat System") and describes the new Leopard 2 as a "transitional measure" until the introduction of the future Land Combat System and "groundbreaking technological frontrunner."
According to the company, the cannon no longer penetrates the vehicle's interior in the new model. "The crew of three to four men can now find refuge in the hull in a particularly armored compartment", the company explained. The option for increased protection, substantial weight reduction, and increased firepower against nearby threats and aerial assaults was noted.
KNDS mentions a remote-controlled weapon station for drone defense and a missile guidance system, enabling engagement of targets beyond the line of sight during travel. The innovations are described as "backward-compatible" and it is written: "All currently operational Leopard 2 variants can be upgraded to the Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0 equipment level."
The developers also sing praises for their new gun "Ascalon". It is the primary gun for combat tanks, "more powerful than all comparable artillery systems", and possesses an "open architecture", allowing other technical solutions from clients. KNDS presently has around 800 weapons systems either in service or under contract for delivery to Ukraine. "The company is one of the world's most significant industrial supporters of Ukraine in the fight against Russian aggression", it was stated in the press release.
The company provides crucial weapons systems for the Bundeswehr modernization, but recently publicly voiced concerns about German ordering pace once more. "We only have about 300 combat-ready tanks in Germany. That's why I often say: Augsburg we can still defend, but Munich and Berlin we can't anymore", warned KNDS CEO Frank Haun in the "FAZ" last weekend.
Haun also expressed concerns about the defense pace to Defense Minister Boris Pistorius. "He signs a framework contract with us for 123 Leopard tanks and orders only 18, which is the same number that Germany has delivered to Ukraine", said Haun. The majority of the order intake in 2023 is not from Germany, but from other NATO countries.
Read also:
The unveiling of the Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0 model by KNDS, with its remotely operated turret, comes at a critical time, given the ongoing 'Attack on Ukraine'. This enhanced version could potentially provide additional protection for Ukrainian forces, especially considering its armor and weapon capabilities, such as the powerful 'Ascalon' gun.
In light of the defense industry's focus on providing advanced tanks to NATO countries, there have been discussions about providing Ukraine with 'tanks', such as the Leopard 2. German-French defense company KNDS, with its production of Leopard 2 tanks, has been one of the world's significant industrial supporters in Ukraine's fight against Russian aggression.
