Germany Shows New Leopard 2A8 – First Tank from Scratch in 30 Years

KNDS has presented the Leopard 2A8 in Germany – the first tank built from scratch for the Bundeswehr in more than 30 years.

The presentation took place at the facilities of KNDS Germany and was a key event in the renewal of the armored forces, KNDS said.

Germany has ordered 123 Leopard 2A8s. The vehicles will enter service in 2027-2030.

The design includes a new protection, modernized sensors, updated electronics and improved survivability on the battlefield.

The Leopard 2A8 is expected to become the main tank of the German army in the coming decades, replacing the existing 2A6 and 2A7 versions.

Lithuania (44 tanks), the Czech Republic (44) and the Netherlands (46) are also purchasing under the framework contract.

Program participants will receive interoperable tank fleets and simplified logistics and maintenance.

Before the vehicle goes into production, the Leopard 2A8 will undergo a full cycle of field and service tests, the manufacturer said.

The basic design includes an updated armor capsule, enhanced mine resistance and new dynamic and passive protection modules.

The tank is equipped with a modern active defense system and an advanced sensor package to detect and counter threats.

A new electronic architecture, digital communication channels and updated fire control systems have been integrated into the Leopard 2A8.

As a reminder, Ukrainian Armor has recently started production of Abrams and Leopard 2 shells.