A tank with artificial intelligence and lasers: France and Germany sign agreement to develop new tank

France and Germany have confirmed plans to jointly develop a next-generation battle tank equipped with artificial intelligence and laser technology.

Here's What We Know

During a ceremony in Paris, French and German Defence Ministers Sébastien Lecorneuil and Boris Pistorius signed a memorandum of understanding that shares responsibilities for the industrial production of an advanced battle tank called the Main Ground Combat System (MGCS).

Also in 2017, Germany and France agreed to jointly develop a new generation battle tank as a successor to the French Leclerc and German Leopard tanks.

Berlin and Paris are seeking to demonstrate unity after a series of disputes over how to support Ukraine in its war against Russia.

The MGCS will not consist of a single armoured combat vehicle, but a system of manned and unmanned vehicles. The project will include drones to protect the tank, as well as AI and laser technology.

Friday's agreement designates manufacturers responsible for key components of tank systems, including platforms, turrets and guns. Negotiations will begin with manufacturers to develop an initial demonstrator, or preliminary prototype.

Source: The Defence Post