German main battle tank Leopard 2: stages of development. Part of 12

19
Strv 121

German main battle tank Leopard 2: stages of development. Part of 12

First appearance: 1994 year A country: Germany / Sweden



As part of the new procurement program tanks Leopard 2 Sweden also received 160 Leopard 2A4 tanks. The tanks were assigned the local designation Strv 121. The main goal of this step was the quick delivery of tanks, which allowed them to immediately begin training crews in the units. All tanks were leased from Germany, but with the option of further modernization or procurement. These cars were from the first production batch and were produced between 1980 and 1987.

The tanks were slightly modified. They received a new camouflage coloring, and the steps on the front side screens were removed. The rear screens were cut off in order to provide easier self-cleaning of the drive wheel. The last two changes were not made on all machines.

Budget cuts in 2009 led to the rapid decommissioning of 160 Strv 121 tanks. Sweden did not use the option to purchase tanks and transferred them back to Germany. Currently, these tanks are used as a base for the variant Leopard 2A4SG Mk. Ii.

Strv 122


First appearance: 1996 year A country: Germany / Sweden

Sweden has been trying for a long time to find a replacement for the old S series tank, the Strv 103. First of all, it was planned to develop something of their own and organize production, but the project was closed due to the high cost. Finally, the list of requirements was determined and the tests of the tank began. This frequently cited competition was held between the Leopard 2, Leclérc and M1 Abrams tanks. Finally, it was decided to purchase the Leopard 2 version based on А5, adapted to the requirements of the customer. This could be the reason that the tank was originally called the Leopard 2A5S, but its official designation is still Strv 122.

The most significant difference from the German Leopard 2А5 is that the Strv 122 is not just a combat improvement of the combat system, but a completely new tank. This allows you to optimize the machine through the use of modern materials and the production process.

The Strv 122 is based on the Mannheim configuration and at the head of it is maximum protection. The front part of the hull can be identified by installing additional booking modules along the entire length, as well as by the newly installed square searchlights. It is believed that they give better visibility to the driver and look more “stylish” (oh, those Swedes). Additional body modifications are associated with the chassis. In order to increase reliability, the Strv 122 tank is equipped with more powerful torsion shafts and shock absorbers from the PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzer. The brake system now has larger diameter wheels, and the crew seats have seat belts.

The propulsion system is the same as other Leopard 2 variants. The only change was the new ventilation system of the engine compartment. Special valves connect the compartment to ring radiators. If they turn on, the air begins to be sucked off, creating a slight vacuum. Fresh air enters the outside, cooling the engine, resulting in significantly reduced thermal signs of tank visibility, which is especially important when operating in cold Sweden. Another change to the case is the installation of six 140 Ah batteries, which replaced the conventional 8 batteries.

Changes to the tower are basically identical to those of the A5 variant. Wedge-shaped modules familiar to many are installed in the front part of the tower and along the sides. In addition, protection from attacks from above was received by the roof of the tower, and also new sliding covers of the commander’s and loader’s hatches were installed.

Sight PERI-R17A2 installed behind the hatch commander. It is equipped with an armored electric sash. It can turn 180 degrees in front of the sight.

A significant increase in combat qualities was provided by the integration of the onboard information and control system Tank Command and Control System (TCCS). It provides information on the state of the tank systems, as well as tactical data to the commander and driver.

The commander can display maps with different resolutions on displays and add tactical information. The exchange of data between the machines is possible with the help of two additional radio stations.

The Strv 122 tank fire control system received a new computer capable of holding ballistic data for 12 projectiles of various types simultaneously. The EMES-15 is now equipped with a raman laser, which is safer for the eyes. The daily channel has a usual increase in x12, as well as an increase in x3 with a wide field of view. The main armament of the tank Strv 122 is the well-known 120-mm smoothbore gun L44. It can fire with armor piercing piercing shells and universal cumulative. Additional armament consists of twin and anti-aircraft machine guns. In addition, the French system GALAX was installed on the Strv 122 tank, replacing the conventional smoke grenade launchers. In addition to smoke grenades, the Galax system is also capable of shooting with high-explosive or special ammunition.

In total, the Swedish armed forces purchased the 122 tank Strv 122. The first 29 tanks were assembled in Germany, the rest 91 in Sweden. In accordance with one of the requirements of the contract, most of the tanks were also manufactured in Sweden.

Strv 122B

First appearance: 2004 year A country: Germany / Sweden

Sweden has become the second country to install additional mine protection on their Leopard 2 tanks. Like the Leopard 2А6М, the Strv 122B tank was equipped with an additional armor plate mounted on the bottom in the front, as well as a new outboard driver's seat.

Initially, it was also planned to install a new commander's sight into the tank. It was supposed to install it on a telescopic mast, adjustable in height. A prototype of this sight was installed, but in the end this system was abandoned and it was not installed on production vehicles.

Leopard 2A4ОЕ


First appearance: 1997 year A country: Germany / Netherlands / Austria

Austria bought the 115 used Leopard 2A4NL tanks from the Netherlands in 1997. Shipments started in 1998 and were successfully completed. From 1983, all tanks were supplied under the designation Leopard 2A3 and were later upgraded. Since then, they have worn enough already. But, unfortunately, Austria did not allow KMWeg to service or inspect the tanks, they were directly delivered from Dutch warehouses. The condition of the cars was appropriate. In addition, all tanks were delivered in the Dutch configuration, including modified smoke screen launchers, radio stations, night vision equipment and machine guns. Spare parts supplies and crew training were also below standard. All this had a negative impact on the deployment of tanks, which was significantly delayed. To update the configuration, spare parts from Germany and Austria were installed locally, which made it possible to bring the tanks to a standard similar to the German Leopard 2. Due to financial difficulties, 40 tanks were decommissioned in the 2006 year and eventually sold to Germany in the 2011 year.

Leopard 2A4DK


First appearance: 1997 year A country: Germany / Denmark

Denmark and Germany have signed a contract for the supply of 51 obsolete Leopard 2А4 tanks from the presence of the Bundeswehr in the 1997 year. Deliveries took place in 1997-1998 years, all tanks entered the operating units without any modifications. Starting with the 2002 year, all tanks were refined to the standard Leopard 2A5DK.

Leopard 2A5DK


First appearance: 2002 year A country: Germany / Denmark

Denmark and Germany signed an additional agreement to upgrade the existing Leopard 2A4 tanks in the 2000 year.
The final configuration is somewhat different from the tanks in the Leopard 2A5 version operated by the Bundeswehr. The frontal armor of the turret was enhanced and modules similar to those of the Strv 122 variant were installed on the body.

At the rear of the hull, a modified cooling system and auxiliary power unit were installed. The tower is equipped with air conditioning crew and electronics, as well as new fire extinguishing system. Air conditioning required a modification of the stern of the tower, similar to the one that was carried out on the Leopard 2A6EX. On the walls of the storage boxes and in the stern of the tower there are now mounted fixtures for snow chains.

A special component of the tank can be found at the top of the gun mask to the left of the gunner’s auxiliary sight body. On the tank Leopard 2A5DK installed spotlight. In the operation of tanks in the Balkans, he was very useful in that it makes the enemy understand that he is under the gun of the main battle tank. The searchlight is controlled from the place of the commander.

The Leopard 2A5DK is also equipped with a new smoke grenade system, which was later installed in Germany on the Leopard 2A6M tanks. Leopard 2A5DK does not have an anti-aircraft machine gun and even attachments for it.

Leopard 2А4Е


First appearance: 1995 year A country: Germany / Spain

To prepare for the mass production and operation of Leopard 2 in Spain, a contract was signed with Germany for the rental of 108 used Leopard 2A4 tanks. The tanks were delivered in 1995-1996 years, but were not modified in any way. It was planned to operate these tanks for five years in order to train Spanish tank crews. Since the production of Leopard 2E was postponed, the rental agreement was extended and Spain eventually bought the tanks in the 2005 year. It was planned to upgrade the tanks to the standard Leopard 2E. At the moment, the tanks will remain in service under the designation Leopard 2А4Е, at least until 2025 year.

Leopard 2E


A country: Germany / Spain

Spain has been working on upgrading its armored forces for quite a long time. Ultimately, it was decided to purchase a total of 300 tanks. Negotiations with Germany ended in 1998 with the signing of a contract for the licensed production of 219 Leopard 2 tanks in Spain. Since the high pace of production was not possible, the leased tanks Leopard 2A4 were purchased. It was agreed that 60% parts will be manufactured in Spain along with final assembly. The remaining 40% were manufactured in other countries, mainly in Germany. In order to speed up the supply process, the first 30 tanks were manufactured in Germany and delivered in the 2003-2006 years. Serial production in Spain began in the 2003 year and ended in the 2008 year after the delivery of the latest 219 X tank Leopard 2E.

The official reason for the delay in the start of mass production was the purchase by the American company General Dynamics Land Systems of the local firm Santa Barbara Sistemas. This is interesting since GDLS also manufactures M1 Abrams tanks. After acquiring SBS, GDLS is also actively trying to sell Leopard 2E, but so far without success.

In general, Leopard 2E is based on the Leopard 2A6 version, but with some modifications. Frontal booking of the tower and the hull was improved by installing the same additional modules as on the Strv 122 tank. Reinforced tower roofs have also been strengthened and sliding hatches are installed. The additional anti-mine protection of the Leopard 2А6 tank was not installed.

The fire control system has been modernized by modern commander and gunner thermal imagers. The tank is also equipped with a LINCE (Leopard Information Control Equipment) system, which allows you to exchange digital data and plan combat missions. The commander has a color display for viewing maps and entering tactical data.

To increase the time for performing combat missions (especially considering the climatic conditions of Spain), the Leopard 2E tank is equipped with an electric air conditioning system installed in the stern of the tower. It is designed to cool crew members and electronics. Along with the air-conditioning system in the aft of the hull, the obligatory VSU was installed. It powers the tank system when the main engine is shut off, which reduces fuel consumption and acoustic signs of visibility.

Leopard 2A4PL


First appearance: 2002 year A country: Germany / Poland

In general, in 2002, 124 used Leopard 2A4 tanks, as well as simulators and evacuation equipment were supplied to Poland from Germany. Machines taken from the last two production batches were stored in warehouses for several years. The tanks were quickly checked and painted over the German symbols and symbols. For the rest, nothing has been changed.

The second agreement, signed in 2013, added 14 Leopard 2A4 tanks to the fleet of the Polish Army. Exploiting the 138 tanks Leopard 2A4 and the new A5, Poland now boasts that it has more Leopard 2 tanks in service than Germany itself.

Leopard 2A5PL


First appearance: 2014 year A country: Germany / Poland

In accordance with the contract signed by Germany and Poland, 2014 used Leopard 2015AS tanks were delivered to this country in 105-2 years. All these cars from the warehouses of the German army. The only modification is to install a new smoke screen system, which currently stands on the tanks of the German army.

Leopard 2PL

First appearance: 2015 year A country: Germany / Poland

Poland is currently planning to upgrade all existing Leopard 2А4 tanks to the new standard Leopard 2PL. While the exact configuration of the tank is not reported. But it is likely that the tank will receive many of the components of the German version of Leopard 2A7. These include additional armor, tower electric drives, the commander's thermal imager, the IFIS control information system, an auxiliary power unit, an air-conditioning system and high-explosive fragmentation ammunition. All 138 tanks of the Leopard 2А4 are expected to be upgraded over the next few years.

Leopard 2A4FI


First appearance: 2003 year A country: Germany / Finland

Finland bought the 124 tank Leopard 2А4, as well as spare parts and documentation. Deliveries of cars took place in 2003 and 2004 years. Initially, the tanks were not modified, and were only repainted. Later, modified storage boxes were installed at the stern of the tower. On the left side screens welded wide steps, allowing quick access to the tank, especially in heavy winter shoes.

Leopard 2A6FI

First appearance: 2015 year A country: Germany / Netherlands / Finland

At the beginning of 2014, Finland approved a new deal for the purchase of additional Leopard 2 tanks. The contract provides for the purchase of 100 reconditioned Leopard 2A6 tanks from the Netherlands, including support systems and spare parts. The deliveries of cars began in the 2015 year, which is scheduled to be completed in the 2020 year. It can be expected that the tanks will receive the same modifications as the variant А4.

Leopard 2A6PO

First appearance: 2008 year A country: Germany / Netherlands / Portugal

In 2007, Portugal decided to buy 38 Leopard 2А6 tanks from the Netherlands. The tanks were refined to the standard of German cars А6 and delivered in 2008-2009 years.

Leopard 2A4NO



First appearance: 2001 year A country: Germany / Netherlands / Norway

Norway and the Netherlands signed a contract for the supply of 52 used tanks Leopard 2А4 in 2001 year. Deliveries began in the same year and ended in the year 2002. The tanks were slightly modified, all Dutch equipment was replaced with standard equipment Leopard 2. This includes the installation of smoke grenades, radio stations and machine guns. Leopard 2A4NO replaces older tanks Leopard 1A5NO.

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    1. +2
      13 January 2017 12: 30
      I want to ask everyone.
      Why does a German tank have a mechwater drive on the right?
      In Germany, the right-hand traffic. For example, we have mechanical water drives either on the left or in the center

      Maybe it was over in one of the parts of the cycle the answer was given, then I apologize for the carelessness.
      1. +3
        13 January 2017 13: 05
        He was also interested in this issue. I suppose that since the loader is on the left in the tower, then the BC is located closer to it, on the left in the case. Consequently, for the driver, there is only space left.
        1. +2
          13 January 2017 14: 51
          Quote: igordok
          I suppose that since the loader is on the left in the tower, then the BC is located closer to it, on the left in the case.

          I think the loader is there because the mechanics were seated on the right, and not vice versa. In our tanks, for example T-62-55-54 and so on, the loader is on the right. For convenience, there is no difference, a matter of habit, which is developed over time.
          But where more attention is required from the driver (right or left) - this is important. For example, the driver of a car with right-hand traffic, especially when overtaking, should sit on the left (leaning out from behind a truck should immediately see the track, and not stick out the whole car and only then see what is happening there). But for military equipment overtaking on a narrow highway is not relevant, but it’s important to see that on the side of the road.
          1. +2
            13 January 2017 20: 30
            Quote: Bad_gr
            But where more attention is required from the driver (right or left) - this is important. For example, the driver of a car with right-hand traffic, especially when overtaking, should sit on the left (leaning out from behind a truck should immediately see the track, and not stick out the whole car and only then see what is happening there).


            Super! Tank overtaking a truck - it's cool!
          2. +1
            13 January 2017 21: 57
            generally overtaking, and not crushing a tank, a spectacular sight.
          3. 0
            13 January 2017 22: 58
            By the way, on Japanese tanks, the driver is sitting on the left, although they have left-hand traffic and cars have a steering wheel on the right.
      2. 0
        13 January 2017 14: 21
        there is no difference for the driver, where is the location, triplex, and even more so the LCD screen eliminates this discomfort, so that everything is normal with control, which is hard to say about the tank itself
        1. 0
          13 January 2017 16: 00
          I think in the tank the driver’s location on the left or on the right is not important at all. Only at its sight all cars in the district will blow to the sidelines. So no one has to overtake. And who didn’t hide, the tankman is not to blame.
          1. 0
            14 January 2017 00: 19
            Hid did not hide, this is garbage, but how many Dutch tanks sold, that’s the question.
          2. 0
            14 January 2017 08: 44
            location on the side is preferable in terms of getting out through your own hatch
        2. 0
          13 January 2017 22: 28
          Let us tell you for the hundredth time about the lack of CWF in western MBTs.
    2. +1
      13 January 2017 21: 19
      I wonder why this PR of a German tank ??? Although in Syria they burn no worse than their overseas brother - "the coolest, coolest" for the press of the West ...
      1. +2
        13 January 2017 22: 21
        All tanks are on fire, even the "unparalleled T-90"
      2. 0
        13 January 2017 22: 36
        Burning T-90
        https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W9Ef7sMPicw
        1. +1
          15 January 2017 13: 04
          Burning T-90 - this story is for employers from behind a large puddle, this is a T-90 tank captured by the bus-storms last year, which the Syrian crew stupidly abandoned, so do not give out the target for military loss
          1. 0
            15 January 2017 22: 25
            The one who captured got a shot from an RPG, as a result of which the tower jammed in the T-90 and the crew left the tank. In this video, a completely different T-90, so there is no need to wishful thinking.
            1. +2
              22 May 2017 00: 28
              here it’s not at all clear where the driver of this Leopard was sitting. ??

              and here, too, it’s not clear where he was sitting.
              1. +2
                22 May 2017 00: 29
                accounted for the loss of Turkish troops in the Syrian al-Bab in recent days. According to him, the Turkish military lost 10 Leopard 2 tanks
                1. The comment was deleted.
                2. +2
                  22 May 2017 00: 31
                  https://defence.ru/editors-choice/istochnik-turec
                  kie-voiska-poteryali-desyat-tankov-leopard-2-v-si
                  rii-foto-video /
          2. The comment was deleted.

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