The German company KNDS Deutschland has officially presented the first Leopard 2A8 tank intended for the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) during a “rollout” event in Munich. It is the first main battle tank built completely from scratch for the Bundeswehr since 1992.
This presentation comes in the context of the Bundeswehr having ordered 123 Leopard 2A8 tanks, which will be incorporated between 2027 and 2030. During the event, the Minister of Defense, Boris Pistorius, announced that the country plans to acquire another 75 units next year.
Before entering service, the vehicle will undergo the Integrierte Nachweisführung, a process in which it will be evaluated by defense technical bodies and by the troops through tactical tests. Only after completing these stages will it receive authorization for use, and delivery of the first serial-production units will begin. The Panzerbrigade 45, stationed in Lithuania, will be the first major German Army contingent to receive this version.
The Leopard 2A8 is the most recent evolution of the model already operated by 15 European countries. In addition to Germany, Lithuania, the Czech Republic and the Netherlands acquired their units through the German framework contract. In total, 257 vehicles are committed, including the 123 for Germany, 44 for Lithuania, and another 44 for the Czech Republic. The agreement includes additional options for 20 more units.
“The Bundeswehr acts”
The event also included the presentation of the Panzerhaubitze 2000 A4, a modernized version of the systems previously delivered to Ukraine. Regarding the security situation and the need to reinforce capabilities, Minister Boris Pistorius stated: “The Bundeswehr acts.”
Pistorius highlighted the relevance of the Leopard 2A8 and the Panzerhaubitze 2000 A4 for ground forces: “It is a good day for the Bundeswehr and for security in Europe.” Also participating were Norway’s Deputy Defense Minister, Marte Gerhardsen, and Bavaria’s Minister-President, Markus Söder.
The minister stated: “We live in times marked by crises and conflicts. These times require more armament and growth.” He added that it is necessary to accelerate decision-making processes, increase capacities, and speed up the arrival of new systems: “We no longer describe the situation nor debate proper terminology. No, we act.”
Main characteristics of the Leopard 2A8
The Leopard 2A8 is a newly manufactured tank with an approximate weight of 70 tons. Its main armament is a Rheinmetall 120 mm/L55A1 gun, also used on the A7V and A7A1 variants. It is capable of firing programmable HE ammunition and next-generation kinetic ammunition.
According to industry information, the vehicle incorporates a fully digital fire-control system and new observation and sighting optics for the commander and gunner, both day and night. It also includes a 360° vision system based on optical and thermal sensors, and an independent power source separate from the main engine with a minimum capacity of 20 kW.
The engine and the lateral transmission system are equivalent to those of the Leopard 2A7V, with 1,500 HP of power. The model introduces new roof armor on the turret against submunitions, improved modular protection on the hull and turret, and the latest version of the Trophy active protection system, also suitable for countering drone attacks.
The Leopard 2A8 incorporates a set of digital systems designed to improve information acquisition and processing capability. Among them are a digital fire-control system, a digital commander’s periscope with laser rangefinder, and thermal systems equipped with advanced sensors. The vehicle adds a cross-platform user interface associated with a mission system adaptable to different operational scenarios. It is also prepared to integrate mine protection, with the option of installing a high-resistance module, and can be equipped with a laser-warning system.
The company also reported that the tank features improvements in the level of protection and mechanical performance. The design incorporates reinforced modular armor on the chassis and turret, optimized roof protection, and the Trophy active system for 360° coverage. It includes a cooling system for internal compartments with a capacity of up to 10 kW and a 20 kW auxiliary power unit supported by stabilizing ultracapacitors. Added to these features are a reinforced suspension system and an improved cooling system to sustain operability in demanding conditions.
Exports of the Leopard 2A8 to NATO allies
As previously mentioned, the Leopard 2A8 is not a combat vehicle solely intended for Germany, but other NATO allies are acquiring them as well. A clear example occurred in August, when the government of Lithuania confirmed that it would advance payments for the acquisition of 44 new Leopard 2A8 tanks from Germany, with the objective of accelerating production and ensuring their delivery and incorporation into the Lithuanian Army before 2030.
According to the bilateral agreement signed between the defense ministers of Germany and Lithuania, three deliveries are planned: the first in 2028, then in 2029—when most of the tanks will be delivered—and finally the third batch in 2030.
Another example also occurred last August, when the Czech Republic approved the acquisition of 44 Leopard 2A8 tanks, with the possibility of expanding the number to 58 units. The Czech government is seeking to modernize its Armed Forces, especially its army’s tank fleet, given that its Main Battle Tank (MBT) remains the Soviet-origin T-72.
Lastly, Croatia has also moved forward with the purchase of this combat platform, announcing it this month of November. With a total investment of USD 1.945 billion, part of the amount will go toward the acquisition of the Leopard 2A8 from Germany, and the other part to the French CAESAR MK2 self-propelled howitzers.
*Cover image obtained from the Federal Ministry of Defense of Germany (Bundesministerium der Verteidigung).
*Translated by Constanza Matteo
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