KMW delivers first upgraded Leopard 2 tanks to Germany and Denmark

Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) has started deliveries of the latest versions of the Leopard 2 main battle tanks to Denmark and Germany.

KMW has handed over the first two vehicle systems to Denmark Ambassador Friis Arne Petersen and German Ministry of Defence Parliamentary State Secretary Dr Peter Tauber.

The upgraded Leopard 2 A7 main battle tank provides improved protection and high-performance power supply.

Other enhancements include new NBC and air-conditioning systems. KMW has also integrated command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence (C4I) systems in the Leopard 2.

In a press release, KMW said: “The modernisation of the driveline and a further optimisation of the weapon stabilisation during travel bolster the vehicles’ agility and combat performance.”

The company expects to deliver 44 Leopard 2 A7 vehicles to the Danish army by 2022.

The German Federal Armed Forces will procure a total of 104 Leopard 2 A7V vehicles. KMW will deliver the remaining vehicles in the programme by 2023.

In 2017, the company received a €760m contract from the German Defence Ministry to bring 104 Leopard 2 A4 configuration tanks up to A7V standard.

Earlier this year, the German Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment (BAAINBw) contracted KMW to modernise 101 Leopard 2 A6 main battle tanks to A7V configuration by 2026.

The €300m contract involves delivering enhancements to the vehicle’s targeting system and fire control computer, operating concept and chassis.