The Franco-German defense company KNDS has unveiled the second prototype of his new combat tank Leopard 2A-RC 3.0 during a demonstration on Klietz’s military training ground in Germany.
The vehicle, referred to as PT02, was presented during an open day, with images published by the YouTube channel Militär-und Landtechnik Klaus Schröder. The platform means a big step in the evolution of the Leopard 2 family, with the introduction of an unmanned dome and a redesigned crew compartment.
Video: Images of the new concept of the Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0 of KNDS during driving and firing.
The new classification contains the three crew members – commander, driver and shooter – in the armored hull, to replace the traditional position in the dome basket. This concept differs from models such as the Russian T-14 Armata, the American Abrams X and other recent designs with unmanned domes.
According to the description of the event, the automated dome has reduced the combat weight to less than 60 tons, which increases mobility without sacrificing firepower. The main cannon is a 120 mm slipper gun, with the possibility of future integration of 130 mm or 140 mm calibers.
The automatic loading mechanism, installed on the back of the dome, delivers a speed of fire up to 18 shots per minute. The prototype is further equipped with Spike LR antitank missiles, the Israeli Trophy Active protection system and explosively reactive armor on the front and sides.
The configuration is designed to maximize the chances of survival of the crew, which is protected in the hull, and to reduce the vulnerability of the dome against hits. The compact design also lowers the visual and radarsilhouette on the battlefield.
With a combination of firepower, layered protection and modular flexibility, the Leopard 2A-RC 3.0 increases the reach and the variety of targets, positioning himself as a strong competitor in the modern armored warfield.
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Source and images: KNDS. This content was made with the help of AI and controlled by the editors.
