Leopard 2: Difference between revisions
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==Variants== |
==Variants== |
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===Main Battle Tanks=== |
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;Leopard 2A1: A number of minor modifications and the installation of the gunner's thermal sight was worked into the second batch of 450 vehicles Leopard 2 designated the A1; 248 by Krauss-Maffei (Chassis Nr. 10211 to 10458) and 202 by Mak (Chassis Nr. 20173 to 20347). Deliveries of the '''2A1''' models started in March 1982 and ended in November 1983. The two most notable changes were the modification of the ammunition racks to be identical to those in the M1 Abrams, and redesigned fuel filters that reduced refueling time. |
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:A third batch of 300 Leopard 2; 165 by Krauss-Maffei (Chassis Nr. 10459 to 10623) and 135 by MaK (Chassis Nr. 20375 to 20509.) 2A1's of the third batch were built between November 1983 and November 1984, which included more minor changes that were later retrofitted to the earlier 2A1's. |
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⚫ | ;Leopard 2A2: This designation was given to upgraded vehicles of the first batch of Leopard 2s, brought up to the standard of the second and third batches. This modernisation gradually replaced in the first batch the original PZB 200 sights with thermal sights for the EMES 15 as they became available. Furthermore the upgrade included the fitting of filler openings and caps to the forward hull fuel tanks to allow separate refuelling, as well as the addition of a deflector plate for the periscope and a large coverplate to protect the existing NBC protection system. Finally, the tank was given new five metre towing cables with a different position. The programme began in 1984 and ended in 1987; the third, fourth and fifth batches were during this period produced with the same features. The modernised first batch can be recognised by the circular plate covering the hole where the cross-wind sensor for the fire-control system was removed.<ref name="jerchel">{{cite book |last=Jerchel |first=Michael |authorlink= |coauthors=Schnellbacher, Uwe |title=Leopard 2 Main Battle Tank 1979-1998 |year=1998 |publisher=Osprey |location=New York, United States of America |isbn=0-85532-691-4 |pages=pp. 17-18 }}</ref> |
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A third batch of 300 Leopard 2; 165 by Krauss-Maffei (Chassis Nr. 10459 to 10623) and 135 by MaK (Chassis Nr. 20375 to 20509.) 2A1's of the third batch were built between November 1983 and November 1984, which included more minor changes that were later retrofitted to the earlier 2A1's. |
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⚫ | ;Leopard 2A3: The fourth batch of 300 vehicles Leopard 2;165 by Krauss-Maffei (Chassis Nr. 10624 to 10788) and 135 by Mak (Chassis Nr. 20510 to 20644) was delivered between December 1984 and December 1985. The main change was the addition of the SEM80/90 digital radio sets (also being fitted to the Leopard 1 at the same time), and the ammunition reloading hatches being welded shut. Even with these minor changes the new batch was known as the '''2A3'''. |
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===Leopard 2A2=== |
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⚫ | ;Leopard 2A4: The most wide-spread version of the Leopard 2 family, the '''2A4''' models included more substantial changes, including an automated fire and explosion suppression system, an all-digital [[fire control system]] able to handle new ammunition types, and improved turret with flat titanium/tungsten armour. |
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⚫ | This designation was given to upgraded vehicles of the first batch of Leopard 2s, brought up to the standard of the second and third batches. This modernisation gradually replaced in the first batch the original PZB 200 sights with thermal sights for the EMES 15 as they became available. Furthermore the upgrade included the fitting of filler openings and caps to the forward hull fuel tanks to allow separate refuelling, as well as the addition of a deflector plate for the periscope and a large coverplate to protect the existing NBC protection system. Finally, the tank was given new five metre towing cables with a different position. The programme began in 1984 and ended in 1987; the third, fourth and fifth batches were during this period produced with the same features. The modernised first batch can be recognised by the circular plate covering the hole where the cross-wind sensor for the fire-control system was removed.<ref name="jerchel">{{cite book |last=Jerchel |first=Michael |authorlink= |coauthors=Schnellbacher, Uwe |title=Leopard 2 Main Battle Tank 1979-1998 |year=1998 |publisher=Osprey |location=New York, United States of America |isbn=0-85532-691-4 |pages=pp. 17-18 }}</ref> |
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⚫ | :The Leopard 2s were manufactured in eight batches between 1985 and 1992. All the older models were also upgraded to 2A4 standard. Germany operated a total of 2,125 2A4s (695 new built and the rest modified older versions), while the Netherlands had an additional 445 tanks. The 2A4 was also license manufactured in Switzerland as the '''Pz87'''. This version included Swiss-built machine guns and communications equipment, and featured improved [[Weapon of mass destruction|NBC]] protection. Switzerland operated 380 Pz87 tanks. |
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===Leopard 2A3=== |
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⚫ | :After the end of the cold war, Germany and the Netherlands found themselves with large stocks of tanks, which they did not have any need for. These tanks were therefore successfully sold to armies around the world. Austria (114), Canada (40), Chile (93), Denmark (51), Finland (124), Greece (183), Norway (52), Poland (128), Singapore (102), Spain (108), Sweden (160), and Turkey (298) were among the buyers of the surplus tanks. |
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⚫ | The fourth batch of 300 vehicles Leopard 2;165 by Krauss-Maffei (Chassis Nr. 10624 to 10788) and 135 by Mak (Chassis Nr. 20510 to 20644) was delivered between December 1984 and December 1985. The main change was the addition of the SEM80/90 digital radio sets (also being fitted to the Leopard 1 at the same time), and the ammunition reloading hatches being welded shut. Even with these minor changes the new batch was known as the '''2A3'''. |
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⚫ | ;Leopard 2A5: The A5 introduced a wedge-shaped MEXAS (Modular Expandable Armor System) spaced add-on armour to the turret front and sides. Though its main function is to defeat a hollow charge attack, the spaced armour is also designed to affect kinetic-energy penetrators by forcing them to change direction and by eroding them in the process; it does not form a shot-trap since it doesn't deflect the penetrators outwards to hit the hull or turret ring. The gun mantle was redesigned to accept the new armour. There were also some improvements in the main armour composition. Tank interior received spall liners to reduce fragments if the armour is penetrated. Side skirts were replaced with a new type. The commander's sight was moved to a new position behind his hatch and it received an independent thermal channel. The [[EMES 15|gunner's sight]] was moved to the turret roof as opposed to the cavity in the front armour in previous models. A new heavier sliding driver's hatch was fitted. Turret controls went all-electric, increasing reliability and crew safety, and producing some weight savings. A5 entered service in the German tank battalions in mid-1998. |
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===Leopard 2A4=== |
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⚫ | :The '''Leopard 2(S)''' is a [[Swedish Army]] variant of the Leopard 2A5, which has received the local designation '''Strv 122'''. It is based off of what was then called "Leopard 2 Improved" and features increased armour on the turret top and front hull, and improved command and control and fire control systems. Externally, the vehicle can be distinguished from the Leopard 2 A5 by the French GALIX smoke dispensers, different storage bins, and the much thicker crew hatches.<ref name="strv122-fmv">[http://www.fmv.se/WmTemplates/Page.aspx?id=1106 Swedish Defence Materiel Administration: Leopard 2 - Stridsvagn 122 (Swedish)]</ref> |
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⚫ | The most wide-spread version of the Leopard 2 family, the '''2A4''' models included more substantial changes, including an automated fire and explosion suppression system, an all-digital [[fire control system]] able to handle new ammunition types, and improved turret with flat titanium/tungsten armour. |
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⚫ | ;Leopard 2A6: Includes the addition of the 120 mm [[Rheinmetall L55|L55]] smoothbore gun (Rheinmetall DeTec AG) and a number of other changes. All German tank battalions of the "crisis intervention forces" are equipped with the A6, as are all Dutch operational units. Canada has also announced its willingness to purchase 40 Leopard 2A6s from the Netherlands. These will be delivered in the fall of 2007.<ref>[http://www.forces.gc.ca/site/newsroom/view_news_e.asp?id=2252]</ref> |
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⚫ | The Leopard 2s were manufactured in eight batches between 1985 and 1992. All the older models were also upgraded to 2A4 standard. Germany operated a total of 2,125 2A4s (695 new built and the rest modified older versions), while the Netherlands had an additional 445 tanks. The 2A4 was also license manufactured in Switzerland as the '''Pz87'''. This version included Swiss-built machine guns and communications equipment, and featured improved [[Weapon of mass destruction|NBC]] protection. Switzerland operated 380 Pz87 tanks. |
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⚫ | :The '''Leopard 2A6M''' is a version of the 2A6 with further protection against mines. Canada has also announced its willingness to loan 20 A6Ms from Germany for immediate deployment to Afghanistan in an effort to increase firepower and to increase protection given to Canadian troops operating in the south of Afghanistan. The new tanks all have turret electric drive as well as internal air conditioning. |
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⚫ | After the end of the cold war, Germany and the Netherlands found themselves with large stocks of tanks, which they did not have any need for. These tanks were therefore successfully sold to armies around the world. Austria (114), Canada (40), Chile (93), Denmark (51), Finland (124), Greece (183), Norway (52), Poland (128), Singapore (102), Spain (108), Sweden (160), and Turkey (298) were among the buyers of the surplus tanks. |
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⚫ | :The '''Leopard 2A6M CAN''' is a Canadian variant of the Leopard 2A6M. Significant modifications include a box mounted on the rear of the turret bustle, expected to be the new air conditioning unit, and Stryker-style slat stand-off armour.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sfu.ca/casr/bg-leopard2-netherlands.htm#2a6m |title=CASR Background — CF Leased & Purchased Leopard 2 A6M / 2 A4 Tanks |accessdate=2007-08-08}}</ref> The first tanks configured in this variant are the 20 tanks loaned from German Bundeswehr, and as such are expected to retain the MG3 machine guns, while the ex-Dutch tanks are expected to retain their FN MAG machine guns due to commonality with existing Canadian stocks.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sfu.ca/casr/bg-leopard2-afghan.htm |title=CASR Background — Leopard 2 A6M / 2 A4 Tanks for the Canadian Forces? |accessdate=2007-08-08}}</ref> |
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===Leopard 2A5=== |
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⚫ | :The '''Leopard 2 Hel''' is a derivate of the 2A6, ordered by the Greek Army in 2003. The "Hel" stands for "Hellenic". The 170 tanks are to be delivered between 2006 and 2009. A total of 140 will be built in Greece by [[ELBO]], which delivered the first units in late 2006.<ref name="leo2hel-images_info">{{cite web |url=http://greekmilitary.net/greekmbtanks.htm |title=Leopard 2 HEL images and info |accessdate=2007-02-18 |format= |work= }}</ref> |
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⚫ | The A5 introduced a wedge-shaped MEXAS (Modular Expandable Armor System) spaced add-on armour to the turret front and sides. Though its main function is to defeat a hollow charge attack, the spaced armour is also designed to affect kinetic-energy penetrators by forcing them to change direction and by eroding them in the process; it does not form a shot-trap since it doesn't deflect the penetrators outwards to hit the hull or turret ring. The gun mantle was redesigned to accept the new armour. There were also some improvements in the main armour composition. Tank interior received spall liners to reduce fragments if the armour is penetrated. Side skirts were replaced with a new type. The commander's sight was moved to a new position behind his hatch and it received an independent thermal channel. The [[EMES 15|gunner's sight]] was moved to the turret roof as opposed to the cavity in the front armour in previous models. A new heavier sliding driver's hatch was fitted. Turret controls went all-electric, increasing reliability and crew safety, and producing some weight savings. A5 entered service in the German tank battalions in mid-1998. |
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'''Leopard 2(S) / Strv 122''' |
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⚫ | The [[Swedish Army]] |
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===Leopard 2A6=== |
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* It was announced on 12 April 2007, that Canada will be acquiring 40 Leopard 2A6's from the Netherlands for delivery in the fall of 2007. Once in Canada these tanks will acquire some specific Canada upgrades before being organized into two squadrons, "one for deployment and a second for rotation into theatre to allow for depot repair and overhaul of the first."[http://www.forces.gc.ca/site/newsroom/view_news_e.asp?id=2252] |
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====Leopard 2A6M==== |
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Based on A6 plus several protections against mines. |
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'''Leopard 2A6M CAN''' |
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⚫ | Canadian variant of the Leopard 2A6M. Significant modifications include a box mounted on the rear of the turret bustle, expected to be the new air conditioning unit, and Stryker-style slat stand-off armour.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sfu.ca/casr/bg-leopard2-netherlands.htm#2a6m |title=CASR Background — CF Leased & Purchased Leopard 2 A6M / 2 A4 Tanks |accessdate=2007-08-08}}</ref> The first tanks configured in this variant are the 20 tanks loaned from German Bundeswehr, and as such are expected to retain the MG3 machine guns, while the ex-Dutch tanks are expected to retain their FN MAG machine guns due to commonality with existing Canadian stocks.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sfu.ca/casr/bg-leopard2-afghan.htm |title=CASR Background — Leopard 2 A6M / 2 A4 Tanks for the Canadian Forces? |accessdate=2007-08-08}}</ref> |
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====Leopard 2 Hel==== |
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[[Image:DSCF1154.JPG|thumb|right|Rear view of [[Spain|Spanish]] Leopard 2E.]] |
[[Image:DSCF1154.JPG|thumb|right|Rear view of [[Spain|Spanish]] Leopard 2E.]] |
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[[image:Leo2pso 009.jpg|thumb|right| Leopard 2PSO, Eurosatory 2006]] |
[[image:Leo2pso 009.jpg|thumb|right| Leopard 2PSO, Eurosatory 2006]] |
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⚫ | :The '''Leopard 2E''' is a derivative of the 2A6 (with greater armour protection), developed under a program of co manufacture between the industries of Spain and Germany. The program is developed within the frame of collaboration decided in 1995 between the Ministries of Defence of both countries, in which also was included the cession of use by a period of five years of 108 Leopard 2A4 from the German Army to the Spanish Army. However, this cession was extended up to 2016, and after that those tanks will be the sole property of the Spanish Army, as has been made public on 24 January 2006, then having been paid a total of 15,124,014 euros in ten yearly installments, giving the Spanish coproperty from 2006. In 1998, the Spanish government agreed to contract 219 tanks of the Leopard 2E line, 16 recovery tanks Leopard 2ER (Bufalo) and 4 training vehicles. They chose Santa Bárbara Sistemas as the main contractor. The program, with a budget of 1,939.4 million Euros, includes also the integrated logistical support, training courses for crew instructors and maintenance engineers and driving, turret, maintenance, aiming and shooting simulators. Deliveries of the first batch began in 2004 and should complete in 2008. |
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====Leopard 2E==== |
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⚫ | :Therefore the Leopard 2 PSO is equipped with more effective all around protection, combined with a secondary weapons station, improved reconnaissance ability, a dozer, non lethal armament, close range surveillance ability (through camera systems), a searchlight and further changes to improve its perseverance and mobility. |
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⚫ | ;Leopard 2 140mm: As the [[1990s]] began, [[Rheinmetall]] began developing a 140mm smoothbore cannon as a future tank cannon. This was intended to counter new developments in [[Warsaw Pact|Soviet-bloc]] armoured fighting vehicles, most especially persistent rumours that the next-generation [[Union of Soviet Socialist Republics|Soviet]] [[main battle tank]] would be armed with either a 135mm or 152mm cannon. This program was contemplated as the third stage in the KWS program of modernizing Leopard 2 tanks. KWS I was the replacement of the [[Rheinmetall L44|L/44]] 120mm cannon with the [[Rheinmetall L55|55-calibre]] model, KWS II was a modernization program that became the Leopard 2A5 ([[Leopard 2#Leopard 2A5|q.q.v.]]), and KWS III would have replaced the main armament with the new 140mm cannon. The KWS III was not adopted then, but development continued on the 140mm weapon system, with [[Rheinmetall]] coordinating with [[Royal Ordnance]] from the [[United Kingdom|UK]] and [[GIAT]] from [[France]]. |
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===Engineering and driver training tanks=== |
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===Leopard 2 PSO=== |
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⚫ | Therefore the Leopard 2 PSO is equipped with more effective all around protection, combined with a secondary weapons station, improved reconnaissance ability, a dozer, non lethal armament, close range surveillance ability (through camera systems), a searchlight and further changes to improve its perseverance and mobility. |
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===Leopard 2 140mm=== |
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<!-- Unsourced image removed: [[Image:Leopard140.jpg|thumb|right|Leopard 2 undergoing tests with 140mm cannon, German Army]] --> |
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⚫ | As the [[1990s]] began, [[Rheinmetall]] began developing a 140mm smoothbore cannon as a future tank cannon. This was intended to counter new developments in [[Warsaw Pact|Soviet-bloc]] armoured fighting vehicles, most especially persistent rumours that the next-generation [[Union of Soviet Socialist Republics|Soviet]] [[main battle tank]] would be armed with either a 135mm or 152mm cannon. This program was contemplated as the third stage in the KWS program of modernizing Leopard 2 tanks. KWS I was the replacement of the [[Rheinmetall L44|L/44]] 120mm cannon with the [[Rheinmetall L55|55-calibre]] model, KWS II was a modernization program that became the Leopard 2A5 ([[Leopard 2#Leopard 2A5|q.q.v.]]), and KWS III would have replaced the main armament with the new 140mm cannon. The KWS III was not adopted then, but development continued on the 140mm weapon system, with [[Rheinmetall]] coordinating with [[Royal Ordnance]] from the [[United Kingdom|UK]] and [[GIAT]] from [[France]]. |
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===Bergepanzer BPz3=== |
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[[Image:Bergepanzer Bueffel.jpg|thumb|BPz3 "Büffel", [[German Army]].]] |
[[Image:Bergepanzer Bueffel.jpg|thumb|BPz3 "Büffel", [[German Army]].]] |
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[[Image:Pionierpanzer-kodiak.jpg|thumb|right|Pionierpanzer 3 "Kodiak".]] |
[[Image:Pionierpanzer-kodiak.jpg|thumb|right|Pionierpanzer 3 "Kodiak".]] |
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[[Image:leopard2trainer.jpg|thumb|right|Leopard 2 Fahrschulpanzer (driving instruction tank), German Army.]] |
[[Image:leopard2trainer.jpg|thumb|right|Leopard 2 Fahrschulpanzer (driving instruction tank), German Army.]] |
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⚫ | ;Bergepanzer BPz3 Büffel: The BPz3 [[armoured recovery vehicle]] (ARV) includes both a [[bulldozer]] and a [[crane (machine)|crane]] with integral [[winch]], allowing it to approach damaged vehicles, even over rough and fought-over terrain, and tow them to safety. It is equipped with a [[machine gun]] for local self-defence, a smoke [[grenade launcher]], and [[Weapon of mass destruction|NBC]] protection. Like the tank, it is powered by a 1500-horsepower [[diesel]] engine. In service with [[Germany]] (where it is also designated ''Büffel'' or ''Bergepanzer 3''), [[The Netherlands]] (who co-developed it and call it ''Buffel''), [[Austria]], [[Greece]], [[Spain]] (where it is called ''Leopard 2ER Bufalo''), [[Sweden]] (in modified form as the ''Bgbv 120''), and [[Switzerland]]. |
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⚫ | ;Panzerschnellbrücke 2: This vehicle, created by [[MAN AG|MAN Mobile Bridges GmbH]], is an [[armoured vehicle-launched bridge]] developed from the Leopard 2 tank chassis. It is designed to carry a folding mobile bridge, which it can "launch" across a river. Once emplaced, the bridge is sturdy enough to support most vehicles, even Leopard tanks. When the crossing is complete, the bridge-layer simply hooks up to the bridge and re-stows it. The Panzerschnellbrücke 2 is currently used only by [[Germany]] and [[The Netherlands]], where it is called ''Bruglegger MLC 70''. |
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===Panzerschnellbrücke 2=== |
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⚫ | This vehicle, created by [[MAN AG|MAN Mobile Bridges GmbH]], is an [[armoured vehicle-launched bridge]] developed from the Leopard 2 tank chassis. It is designed to carry a folding mobile bridge, which it can "launch" across a river. Once emplaced, the bridge is sturdy enough to support most vehicles, even Leopard tanks. When the crossing is complete, the bridge-layer simply hooks up to the bridge and re-stows it. The Panzerschnellbrücke 2 is currently used only by [[Germany]] and [[The Netherlands]], where it is called ''Bruglegger MLC 70''. |
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===Pionierpanzer 3 Kodiak=== |
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⚫ | A [[combat engineering vehicle]], or CEV, conversion of the Leopard 2, the Kodiak is used by [[Switzerland]]. While equipped with a [[bulldozer]], [[excavator]],and dual capstan winches, the Pionierpanzer 3 has no turret and is unarmed. It rides on the Leopard 2 chassis with a built-up forward superstructure. The vehicle, which is only in use by the [[Military of Switzerland|Swiss Army]], is used primarily for clearance of obstacles (including minefields). |
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⚫ | ;Pionierpanzer 3 Kodiak: A [[combat engineering vehicle]], or CEV, conversion of the Leopard 2, the Kodiak is used by [[Switzerland]]. While equipped with a [[bulldozer]], [[excavator]],and dual capstan winches, the Pionierpanzer 3 has no turret and is unarmed. It rides on the Leopard 2 chassis with a built-up forward superstructure. The vehicle, which is only in use by the [[Military of Switzerland|Swiss Army]], is used primarily for clearance of obstacles (including minefields). |
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===Driver Training Tank (Fahrschulpanzer)=== |
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The Leopard 2 Driver Training Tank, as the name implies, is a non-combatant Leopard 2 meant to instruct soldiers in the finer points of handling a 60+ ton vehicle. The turret is supplanted by a weighted and fixed observation cab with forward and side-facing windows and a dummy gun. The instructor rides in this cab, with override controls for critical systems, and space is provided for two other students to observe. |
;Driver Training Tank (Fahrschulpanzer): The Leopard 2 Driver Training Tank, as the name implies, is a non-combatant Leopard 2 meant to instruct soldiers in the finer points of handling a 60+ ton vehicle. The turret is supplanted by a weighted and fixed observation cab with forward and side-facing windows and a dummy gun. The instructor rides in this cab, with override controls for critical systems, and space is provided for two other students to observe. |
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==Operators== |
==Operators== |
Revision as of 10:18, 13 August 2007
Leopard 2A6 | |
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Type | Main battle tank |
Place of origin | West Germany |
Service history | |
In service | 1979 - |
Used by | Germany, various nations (see table below) |
Production history | |
Manufacturer | Krauss-Maffei |
Specifications | |
Mass | 62.3 tonnes |
Length | 7.7 m |
Width | 3.7 m |
Height | 3.0 m |
Crew | 4 |
Armor | 3rd Generation composite; including high-hardness steel, tungsten and plastic filler with ceramic component. |
Main armament | 1 x 120 mm Rheinmetall L55 smoothbore gun. 42 rounds |
Secondary armament | 2 x 7.62 mm MG3 4,750 rounds |
Engine | MTU MB 873 Ka-501 12-cylinder diesel 1,500 HP(1,103 kW)at 2600 RPM. |
Power/weight | 24.2 hp/tonne |
Suspension | torsion-bar |
Operational range | 550 km |
Maximum speed | 72 km/h |
The Leopard 2 is a German main battle tank built by the German company Krauss-Maffei-Wegmann, developed in the early 1970s and first entering service in 1979, replacing the earlier Leopard 1 as the foremost MBT in the Bundeswehr. Its different versions have served in the armed forces of Germany and ten other European countries, as well as non-European countries. More than 3,200 Leopard 2s have been manufactured.
There are two main development batches of the tank, the original models up to Leopard 2A4 which have vertically faced turret armour, and the "Improved" batch, namely Leopard 2A5 and newer, which have angled arrow-shaped turret add-on armour together with a number of other improvements. All models feature digital fire control systems with laser range-finders, fully stabilized main gun and coaxial machinegun and night vision equipment (first vehicles used a Low-Light Level TV system or LLLTV, thermal imaging was introduced later on). The tank has the ability to engage moving targets while moving over rough terrain. It can drive through water 4 meters deep using a snorkel or 1.2 meters without any preparation and climb vertical obstacles over 1 meter high. The tank is powered with a turbo-charged multi-fuel V12 diesel engine that produces 1,500 horsepower.
Development
Even as the Leopard was entering service in 1965, an up-gunned Leopard with the new Rheinmetall L44 120-mm gun being was considered to keep pace with the newer Soviet designs, but this was cancelled in favour of the joint MBT-70 "super-tank" project with the United States. The MBT-70 was a revolutionary design, but after large cost overruns, Germany withdrew from the project in 1969.
Work on a national development was started in 1970 by Krauss-Maffei. A year later a choice was made for it to be based on the earlier Experimentalentwicklung (later named Keiler) project of the late sixties (itself derived from the vergoldeter Leopard or Gilded Leopard), instead of being a modified MBT-70 or Eber. The name of the design was determined in 1971 as "Leopard 2" with the original Leopard retroactively becoming the Leopard 1. Seventeen prototypes were ordered that year (only sixteen hulls were built). They had to have a maximum weight of fifty metric tons.
On 11 December 1974 a Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the USA for the possible joint production of a new MBT, after the Americans had bought and investigated prototype hull number seven in 1973. In view of the experiences in the Yom Kippur War a much higher level of protection was demanded than was implemented in the prototypes, that used heavily sloped spaced armour. The weight class was increased to sixty tons. Prototype turret number fourteen was changed to test a new armour configuration, and was turned into a blockier looking turret as a result of using vertical steel perforated armour; it already had been much more voluminous than the turret of a Leopard 1 because of a large internal ammunition storage locker in the rear. The Leopard 2 thus initially used perforated armour but not Chobham armour as often claimed. PT-14 used the 120 mm Rheinmetall gun (as eventually did the U.S. Abrams). After this two new prototype hulls and three turrets were ordered, one (PT-20) mounting the original L7A3 105 mm gun and a Hughes fire control system, a second (PT-19) with the same fire control system but able to "swap out" the gun for the 120 mm Rheinmetall design (it was indeed so changed by the Americans), and one more (PT-21) mounting the Hughes-Krupp Atlas Elektronik EMES 13 fire control system, with the 120 mm gun.
In the summer of 1976 prototype 19 was assembled and shipped to the USA, together with hull number twenty and a special target vehicle to test the armour. The prototype was called Leopard 2AV (Austere Version) because it had a simplified fire control system. It arrived in the US by the end of August 1976, and comparative tests between the Leopard 2 and the XM1 (the prototype name for the M1 Abrams) prototypes were held from 1 September at Aberdeen Proving Ground, lasting until December 1976. The US Army reported that the Leopard 2 and the XM1 were comparable in firepower and mobility, but the XM1 was superior in armour protection. Today we know this was true as regards a hit by a hollow charge; but against KE-attack the Leopard 2 was almost twice as well protected as the original M1 (650 mm to 350 mm). Its more traditional multifuel diesel engine was also more reliable, and provided similar performance with less fuel consumption, although it did produce more noise but less heat. Hull twenty was fitted with simulation weights, which transpired to equal only the weight of a turret without armour modules fitted, devalidating all performance data. After the comparative test the Leopard 2 hulls were returned to Germany for further evaluation, but turret 19 remained and was fitted to the hull of prototype seven, whilst its gun was changed for the 120 mm Rheinmetall. In tests until March 1977 it was found to be far superior to the 105 mm M7 mounted on the Abrams, which was confirmed by subsequent NATO tank gunnery contests.
Before tests had begun the United States had selected the Chrysler XM1 prototype for full development however the military still agreed to consider adopting the Leopard 2. In January 1977 Germany ordered a small preseries of three hulls and two turrets, delivered in 1978. These vehicles had increased armour protection on the front of the hull. In September 1977 1800 Leopard 2 were ordered, to be produced in five batches. The first was delivered on 25 October 1979. At that moment the Dutch army had already rejected the M1 because of its high operating costs and the refusal by the Americans to fit a Dutch version with the 120 mm gun and ordered 445 Leopard 2s on 2 March 1979. The Swiss ordered 35 tanks on 24 August 1983 and started licence production of 345 additional vehicles in December 1987. Thus hardly being a major export success in the eighties (no tank of the latest generation was), the type became very popular in the nineties, when the shrinking German army offered many of its redundant Leopard 2s at a reduced price. Today it has become successful enough in Europe that the manufacturer has started calling it the Euro Leopard. However, France, Britain, and Italy all have their own MBTs currently (Leclerc, Challenger 2 and Ariete respectively).
Production history
In September 1977 the German Ministry of Defence decided to go ahead with plans for production of 1,800 Leopard 2s, to be delivered in five batches. Krauss-Maffei was again chosen as the main contractor, but this time Maschinenbau Kiel (MaK), of Kiel, Germany would be a major (45%) subcontractor. Deliveries started in 1979, and by 1982 the first batch of 380 Leopard 2; 209 by Krauss-Maffei (Chassis Nr. 10001 to 10210) and 171 by Mak (Chassis Nr. 20001 to 20172) was completed. The earliest of these were mounted with an image intensifier, the last 80 with a new thermal night-sight system, and this was later retrofitted to the earlier models.
The first export customer was The Netherlands which received 445 between 1981 and 1986. The Netherlands later resold 114 of these (and one turret) to Austria, 100 to Canada in 2007,[2] and another 52 tanks to Norway. Sweden also acquired 280 Leopards, 160 2A4s from German stocks, designated Stridsvagn 121, and the rest 2(S) models (Strv122) similar to the 2A5. Spain leased 108 2A4 models in the interim period before 219 licence-made 2A6 models (Leopardo 2E) were built. Switzerland bought 380 between 1987 and 1993. A number of countries also use versions of them including Poland, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Turkey and Chile. Germany has fielded about 2125 of them in various versions. The design was also tested by Britain in the 1980s, which ultimately decided on the Challenger 2. The Australian Army evaluated ex-German Leopard 2s as a replacement for its Leopard 1 tanks in 2003 but instead selected the M1A1 Abrams.
The recent bidding wins for the Leopard 2 (such as Greece selecting the Leopard 2 over the M1 Abrams and the Leclerc) are strong evidence that the Leopard 2 is one of the best selling tanks in the world. Until now, the only combat engagements of the Leopard 2 has been during operations by the KFOR in Kosovo and by Western forces in the War in Afghanistan.
Variants
Main Battle Tanks
- Leopard 2A1
- A number of minor modifications and the installation of the gunner's thermal sight was worked into the second batch of 450 vehicles Leopard 2 designated the A1; 248 by Krauss-Maffei (Chassis Nr. 10211 to 10458) and 202 by Mak (Chassis Nr. 20173 to 20347). Deliveries of the 2A1 models started in March 1982 and ended in November 1983. The two most notable changes were the modification of the ammunition racks to be identical to those in the M1 Abrams, and redesigned fuel filters that reduced refueling time.
- A third batch of 300 Leopard 2; 165 by Krauss-Maffei (Chassis Nr. 10459 to 10623) and 135 by MaK (Chassis Nr. 20375 to 20509.) 2A1's of the third batch were built between November 1983 and November 1984, which included more minor changes that were later retrofitted to the earlier 2A1's.
- Leopard 2A2
- This designation was given to upgraded vehicles of the first batch of Leopard 2s, brought up to the standard of the second and third batches. This modernisation gradually replaced in the first batch the original PZB 200 sights with thermal sights for the EMES 15 as they became available. Furthermore the upgrade included the fitting of filler openings and caps to the forward hull fuel tanks to allow separate refuelling, as well as the addition of a deflector plate for the periscope and a large coverplate to protect the existing NBC protection system. Finally, the tank was given new five metre towing cables with a different position. The programme began in 1984 and ended in 1987; the third, fourth and fifth batches were during this period produced with the same features. The modernised first batch can be recognised by the circular plate covering the hole where the cross-wind sensor for the fire-control system was removed.[1]
- Leopard 2A3
- The fourth batch of 300 vehicles Leopard 2;165 by Krauss-Maffei (Chassis Nr. 10624 to 10788) and 135 by Mak (Chassis Nr. 20510 to 20644) was delivered between December 1984 and December 1985. The main change was the addition of the SEM80/90 digital radio sets (also being fitted to the Leopard 1 at the same time), and the ammunition reloading hatches being welded shut. Even with these minor changes the new batch was known as the 2A3.
- Leopard 2A4
- The most wide-spread version of the Leopard 2 family, the 2A4 models included more substantial changes, including an automated fire and explosion suppression system, an all-digital fire control system able to handle new ammunition types, and improved turret with flat titanium/tungsten armour.
- The Leopard 2s were manufactured in eight batches between 1985 and 1992. All the older models were also upgraded to 2A4 standard. Germany operated a total of 2,125 2A4s (695 new built and the rest modified older versions), while the Netherlands had an additional 445 tanks. The 2A4 was also license manufactured in Switzerland as the Pz87. This version included Swiss-built machine guns and communications equipment, and featured improved NBC protection. Switzerland operated 380 Pz87 tanks.
- After the end of the cold war, Germany and the Netherlands found themselves with large stocks of tanks, which they did not have any need for. These tanks were therefore successfully sold to armies around the world. Austria (114), Canada (40), Chile (93), Denmark (51), Finland (124), Greece (183), Norway (52), Poland (128), Singapore (102), Spain (108), Sweden (160), and Turkey (298) were among the buyers of the surplus tanks.
- Leopard 2A5
- The A5 introduced a wedge-shaped MEXAS (Modular Expandable Armor System) spaced add-on armour to the turret front and sides. Though its main function is to defeat a hollow charge attack, the spaced armour is also designed to affect kinetic-energy penetrators by forcing them to change direction and by eroding them in the process; it does not form a shot-trap since it doesn't deflect the penetrators outwards to hit the hull or turret ring. The gun mantle was redesigned to accept the new armour. There were also some improvements in the main armour composition. Tank interior received spall liners to reduce fragments if the armour is penetrated. Side skirts were replaced with a new type. The commander's sight was moved to a new position behind his hatch and it received an independent thermal channel. The gunner's sight was moved to the turret roof as opposed to the cavity in the front armour in previous models. A new heavier sliding driver's hatch was fitted. Turret controls went all-electric, increasing reliability and crew safety, and producing some weight savings. A5 entered service in the German tank battalions in mid-1998.
- The Leopard 2(S) is a Swedish Army variant of the Leopard 2A5, which has received the local designation Strv 122. It is based off of what was then called "Leopard 2 Improved" and features increased armour on the turret top and front hull, and improved command and control and fire control systems. Externally, the vehicle can be distinguished from the Leopard 2 A5 by the French GALIX smoke dispensers, different storage bins, and the much thicker crew hatches.[2]
- Leopard 2A6
- Includes the addition of the 120 mm L55 smoothbore gun (Rheinmetall DeTec AG) and a number of other changes. All German tank battalions of the "crisis intervention forces" are equipped with the A6, as are all Dutch operational units. Canada has also announced its willingness to purchase 40 Leopard 2A6s from the Netherlands. These will be delivered in the fall of 2007.[3]
- The Leopard 2A6M is a version of the 2A6 with further protection against mines. Canada has also announced its willingness to loan 20 A6Ms from Germany for immediate deployment to Afghanistan in an effort to increase firepower and to increase protection given to Canadian troops operating in the south of Afghanistan. The new tanks all have turret electric drive as well as internal air conditioning.
- The Leopard 2A6M CAN is a Canadian variant of the Leopard 2A6M. Significant modifications include a box mounted on the rear of the turret bustle, expected to be the new air conditioning unit, and Stryker-style slat stand-off armour.[4] The first tanks configured in this variant are the 20 tanks loaned from German Bundeswehr, and as such are expected to retain the MG3 machine guns, while the ex-Dutch tanks are expected to retain their FN MAG machine guns due to commonality with existing Canadian stocks.[5]
- The Leopard 2 Hel is a derivate of the 2A6, ordered by the Greek Army in 2003. The "Hel" stands for "Hellenic". The 170 tanks are to be delivered between 2006 and 2009. A total of 140 will be built in Greece by ELBO, which delivered the first units in late 2006.[6]
- The Leopard 2E is a derivative of the 2A6 (with greater armour protection), developed under a program of co manufacture between the industries of Spain and Germany. The program is developed within the frame of collaboration decided in 1995 between the Ministries of Defence of both countries, in which also was included the cession of use by a period of five years of 108 Leopard 2A4 from the German Army to the Spanish Army. However, this cession was extended up to 2016, and after that those tanks will be the sole property of the Spanish Army, as has been made public on 24 January 2006, then having been paid a total of 15,124,014 euros in ten yearly installments, giving the Spanish coproperty from 2006. In 1998, the Spanish government agreed to contract 219 tanks of the Leopard 2E line, 16 recovery tanks Leopard 2ER (Bufalo) and 4 training vehicles. They chose Santa Bárbara Sistemas as the main contractor. The program, with a budget of 1,939.4 million Euros, includes also the integrated logistical support, training courses for crew instructors and maintenance engineers and driving, turret, maintenance, aiming and shooting simulators. Deliveries of the first batch began in 2004 and should complete in 2008.
- Leopard 2 PSO
- This new variant Leopard 2 PSO (Peace Support Operations) is designed specially for MOUT (Military Operations in Urban Terrain) which peacekeeping operations as encountered more and more.
- Therefore the Leopard 2 PSO is equipped with more effective all around protection, combined with a secondary weapons station, improved reconnaissance ability, a dozer, non lethal armament, close range surveillance ability (through camera systems), a searchlight and further changes to improve its perseverance and mobility.
- Leopard 2 140mm
- As the 1990s began, Rheinmetall began developing a 140mm smoothbore cannon as a future tank cannon. This was intended to counter new developments in Soviet-bloc armoured fighting vehicles, most especially persistent rumours that the next-generation Soviet main battle tank would be armed with either a 135mm or 152mm cannon. This program was contemplated as the third stage in the KWS program of modernizing Leopard 2 tanks. KWS I was the replacement of the L/44 120mm cannon with the 55-calibre model, KWS II was a modernization program that became the Leopard 2A5 (q.q.v.), and KWS III would have replaced the main armament with the new 140mm cannon. The KWS III was not adopted then, but development continued on the 140mm weapon system, with Rheinmetall coordinating with Royal Ordnance from the UK and GIAT from France.
Engineering and driver training tanks
- Bergepanzer BPz3 Büffel
- The BPz3 armoured recovery vehicle (ARV) includes both a bulldozer and a crane with integral winch, allowing it to approach damaged vehicles, even over rough and fought-over terrain, and tow them to safety. It is equipped with a machine gun for local self-defence, a smoke grenade launcher, and NBC protection. Like the tank, it is powered by a 1500-horsepower diesel engine. In service with Germany (where it is also designated Büffel or Bergepanzer 3), The Netherlands (who co-developed it and call it Buffel), Austria, Greece, Spain (where it is called Leopard 2ER Bufalo), Sweden (in modified form as the Bgbv 120), and Switzerland.
- Panzerschnellbrücke 2
- This vehicle, created by MAN Mobile Bridges GmbH, is an armoured vehicle-launched bridge developed from the Leopard 2 tank chassis. It is designed to carry a folding mobile bridge, which it can "launch" across a river. Once emplaced, the bridge is sturdy enough to support most vehicles, even Leopard tanks. When the crossing is complete, the bridge-layer simply hooks up to the bridge and re-stows it. The Panzerschnellbrücke 2 is currently used only by Germany and The Netherlands, where it is called Bruglegger MLC 70.
- Pionierpanzer 3 Kodiak
- A combat engineering vehicle, or CEV, conversion of the Leopard 2, the Kodiak is used by Switzerland. While equipped with a bulldozer, excavator,and dual capstan winches, the Pionierpanzer 3 has no turret and is unarmed. It rides on the Leopard 2 chassis with a built-up forward superstructure. The vehicle, which is only in use by the Swiss Army, is used primarily for clearance of obstacles (including minefields).
- Driver Training Tank (Fahrschulpanzer)
- The Leopard 2 Driver Training Tank, as the name implies, is a non-combatant Leopard 2 meant to instruct soldiers in the finer points of handling a 60+ ton vehicle. The turret is supplanted by a weighted and fixed observation cab with forward and side-facing windows and a dummy gun. The instructor rides in this cab, with override controls for critical systems, and space is provided for two other students to observe.
Operators
Country | Operator | Num. | Type and details |
---|---|---|---|
Austria | Austrian Army | 114 | 114 Leopard 2A4 and a single turret. |
Chile | Chilean Army | 93 | 118 Leopard 2A4 (93 Leopard 2A4 + 25 Spares) (2007)[7] |
Canada | Canadian Forces | (100) | Plan to acquire 40 Leopard 2A4M, 40 Leopard 2A6 (Leopard 2A6NL), and 20 support vehicles in fall of 2007. Interim loan of 20 Leopard 2A6M from Germany to support the Canadian deployment in Afghanistan, in summer 2007.[3] |
Denmark | Danish Army | 57 | 57 Leopard 2A5+[8] |
Finland | Finnish Army | 124 | 124 Leopard 2A4 |
Germany | German Army, Bundeswehr | 2,350 | 457 Leopard 2 (2007), 394 Leopard 2 (2011)[9] |
Greece | Hellenic Army | 353 | 183 Leopard 2A4 and 170 Leopard 2A6 (Leopard 2 HEL) |
Netherlands | Royal Netherlands Army | 445 | 82 Leopard 2A6 and 28 Leopard 2A6 in storage/for sale |
Norway | Norwegian Army | 52 | 52 Leopard 2A4NO (currently replacing the old Leopard 1 tanks with Leopard 2. The Leopard 2A4 will be upgraded to A5 standard) |
Poland | Polish Army | 128 | 128 Leopard 2A4 + additional 123 Leopard 2A4 on order |
Portugal | Portuguese Army | - | in negotiations with The Netherlands to acquire the 22 of the Leopard 2A6 tanks that they have for sale |
Singapore | Singapore Army | 102 | 132 Leopard 2A4 (102 Leopard 2A4 + 30 Spares) (On order)[10] |
Spain | Spanish Army | 327 | 108 Leopard 2A4 and 219 Leopard 2A6+ (Leopard 2 E) |
Sweden | Swedish Army | 280 | 120 Leopard 2(S) (Strv 122). 160 Leopard 2A4 (Strv 121) are no longer in service. |
Switzerland | Swiss Army | 380 | 380 Leopard 2A4 (Pz 87) |
Turkey | Turkish Army | 298 | 298 Leopard 2A4 |
References
- ^ Jerchel, Michael (1998). Leopard 2 Main Battle Tank 1979-1998. New York, United States of America: Osprey. pp. pp. 17-18. ISBN 0-85532-691-4.
{{cite book}}
:|pages=
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- ^ [1]
- ^ "CASR Background — CF Leased & Purchased Leopard 2 A6M / 2 A4 Tanks". Retrieved 2007-08-08.
- ^ "CASR Background — Leopard 2 A6M / 2 A4 Tanks for the Canadian Forces?". Retrieved 2007-08-08.
- ^ "Leopard 2 HEL images and info". Retrieved 2007-02-18.
- ^ "Chile concludes deal to buy 118 tanks from Germany". Retrieved 2007-02-18.
- ^ "Financial Report of the Danish Defense Ministry" (PDF) (in Danish). Retrieved 2007-02-18.
- ^ "Bundeswehrplan 2007" (PDF) (in German). Retrieved 2007-02-18.
- ^ "DefenseNews.com: Singapore to buy refurbished Leopard tanks from Germany". Retrieved 2007-02-18.
Bibliography
- Jerchel, Michael (1998). Leopard 2 Main Battle Tank 1979-1998. New York, United States of America: Osprey. p. 48. ISBN 0-85532-691-4.
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External links
- Army Technology - Leopard 2 Main Battle Tank
- Army Vehicles.DK Leopard 2A5
- Army Vehicles.DK Leopard 2A4
- Military Periscope - Leopard 2 main battle tank
- Fprado.com - Kampfpanzer Leopard 2
- Leopard 2A5
- Leopard 2A6 at army-guide.com
- Scandinavian Armor Website
- A Finnish Army Leopard 2A4 firing from a hull-down position
- A Finnish Leopard 2A4 firing, videoed from inside the turret