Krauss Maffei Wegmann (KMW) has introduced a new demo model of the Leopard 2A8 tank, showing significant improvements in armor, active protection, sighting, communications and fire control. While detailed specifications have been revealed, the new tank turned out to be an evolution of the Leopard 2A7+ concept, keeping its core armaments.

One of the most important improvements on the Leopard 2A8 tank is its armor. The updated armor pack includes the latest generation of multilayer armor made of steel, tungsten, ceramic and composite infill. This allows you to significantly increase protection against cumulative shells, RPG-7 grenade launchers, mines and unmanned aerial vehicles. The lower part of the tank is protected from mines, the upper part is protected from small drones and cluster munitions. Additional armor modules protect against shells that can penetrate up to 600 mm of armor, making the Leopard 2A8 more resilient to potential threats.

Another important development is the use of the EuroTroph active protection system. This complex allows the tank to detect and destroy threats in a controlled area. The radar system developed by IAI Elta constantly monitors threats and automatically reacts when detected. Thanks to EuroTroph, the Leopard 2A8 tank has significantly increased its survivability on the battlefield.

The Leopard 2A8 tank also received updated sights, communications and fire control systems. Details on the exact characteristics of these systems were not disclosed, but it can be assumed that the company made improvements in accuracy of fire, target acquisition range and the ability of the tank commander to effectively manage combat operations.

The improved sight on the Leopard 2A8 tank allows the crew to aim their guns more accurately and increase the probability of defeat. This is especially important in today’s war environment, where the enemy can be well protected and maneuvered to avoid being hit. The new sights provide better optical resolution, improved night and thermal vision, and automatic target tracking capabilities.

The communications and fire control system also received significant updates. Now tank crews can more effectively coordinate their actions with other combat units on the battlefield, exchange information and receive support from other systems. This makes it possible to significantly increase the effectiveness and tactical flexibility of the tank unit, improving its ability to conduct combat operations in various conditions.

Updated tank sights, fire control and communication systems. The engine was replaced with a more powerful engine (1,600 hp) due to its weight being increased to 67 tons. The Leopard 2A8 is equipped with the Rh120 L55 smoothbore gun (120 mm, 55 caliber). The weapon supports the standard nomenclature of 120mm NATO shells and DM11 high-explosive shells.

Overall, KMW’s Leopard 2A8 tank is a major development and evolution of the successful Leopard 2 line. Improved armor, active protection, new sights, communications and fire control make it more effective and protected on the battlefield. These improvements meet the modern requirements of the combat environment and ensure that the Leopard 2A8 remains one of the most advanced and powerful combat vehicles in its class. Source