Leopard 2A8: Leading Europe into a new era of armoured dominance
At the Czech defence fair, IDET, a demonstrator of the Leopard 2A8 tank was showcased, poised to become the core of European armoured forces for the next few decades. Here's what is known about it.
The largest and heaviest piece of equipment at the IDET fair is the Leopard 2A7, which has been modified with components that will be included in the production Leopard 2A8 models. Interestingly, it's worth noting that this model consistently bypasses Polish MSPO fairs.
However, this is understandable, as Poland has focused, alongside its older Leopard 2 tanks, primarily on a mix of tanks from the M1 Abrams family and the K2 as replacements for their fleet of post-Soviet T-72 machines. Meanwhile, the Czech Republic has decided to acquire 77 Leopard 2A8 tanks and has negotiated a significant contribution from Czech industry in their production.
Pinnacle of German armoured design evolution
The Leopard 2A8 tank represents the pinnacle of achievement in the European defence industry, distinguished mainly by its integration with the advanced Israeli Trophy active protection system. This system, also used in American M1A2 SEP V2/3 Abrams tanks, enables the neutralisation of incoming anti-armour missiles or drones with shaped-charge warheads.
The Trophy system, developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, uses radars placed on the tank's turret to detect threats. They provide data, such as the speed and distance of incoming objects, which is necessary to determine which countermeasure launcher to use. These launchers contain projectiles with an explosively formed penetrator warhead, capable of destroying the incoming object during the explosion.
Integration with the Trophy system is crucial because tanks are best armoured at the front, while their sides, rear, and top are significantly less protected. Opponents, as shown in numerous recordings from Ukraine and the Gaza Strip, often attempt to target these weaker areas using handheld anti-armour systems and drones. Under normal conditions, this tactic is effective, but not against tanks equipped with Trophy.
Additionally, the Leopard 2A8 tank has been fitted with new optoelectronics, modern communication systems, and reinforced turret roof and hull sides, enhancing protection against cluster munitions.
These modifications have increased the weight to nearly 70,000 kilograms, necessitating an increase in engine power from 1,500 horsepower to 1,600 horsepower to maintain the desired level of off-road mobility. As a result, the Leopard 2 will remain one of the best machines in the world for decades to come.
