The Leopard 3 main battle tank is coming soon
125The German Ministry of Defence announced that the first contracts for the Leopard 3 main battle tank have been signed.
The move is part of Germany’s efforts to modernize its armored combat capabilities. The Leopard 3 is expected to play a key role in the transition process ahead of the Main Ground Combat System (MGCS), which is scheduled to enter service in 2045.
While France decided not to finance an “interim” solution until the MGCS enters service, Germany decided to develop an interim solution with the Leopard 3. This approach aims to modernize armored vehicle technologies in the short term while supporting the transition to the MGCS in the long term.
The Leopard 3 is expected to be equipped with a 130mm gun produced by Rheinmetall. Contracts have also been signed to develop at least three different 130mm ammunition models for this weapon system.
The Leopard 3’s drive system will be designed by KNDS Deutschland. This system, called “OLYMP,” will be powered by an engine produced by Liebherr. The engine is planned to increase the agility of the drive chain with components taken from existing systems and integrate alternative internal combustion engine technologies.