Germany wants at least 18 Leopard 2A8 tanks to replace the Leopard 2A6

The German Ministry of Defence is preparing to order a batch of Leopard 2A8 tanks. This is reported by Army Recognition, citing Europäische Sicherheit & Technik.

Here's What We Know

Krauss-Maffei Wegmann, the German tank manufacturer, may receive an order for at least 18 Leopard 2A8s in the near future. It was previously reported that the German Ministry of Defence would purchase a Leopard 2A7+ variant.

The Leopard 2A8 is based on the Leopard 2A7HU and will replace the Leopard 2A6. The 2A7HU version is intended for the Hungarian Armed Forces. The Hungarian Ministry of Defence has placed an order for 44 combat vehicles.

The Leopard 2A8 will be equipped with Israel's Trophy active protection system, improved anti-tank missile and mine protection. The combat vehicle will also receive a new propulsion system. Improved optics will enable the crew to conduct reconnaissance at greater distances.

The new tank will be equipped with the 120 mm Rheinmetall L55 gun used in the Leopard 2A7+. It will replace the existing L44 gun. Also worth noting is the support of programmable ammunition with selectable detonation timing.

Source: Army Recognition