COLOGNE, Germany — Germany’s KNDS has unveiled the Leopard 2A8, the latest version of the main battle tank, which has served various armored formations across Europe and beyond for over a dozen countries. This new model marks the first complete build for the Leopard series since 1992, following previous versions that were modernizations of existing tanks.
The German Army is set to receive 123 units of the Leopard 2A8, each weighing nearly 70 metric tons. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2027 and conclude in 2030. Significant upgrades include a locally-produced version of the Trophy active protection system from Israel’s Rafael, intended to intercept incoming projectiles. German officials previously tested the Trophy system on an earlier Leopard iteration, deciding to adopt it as standard equipment for the new series.
Additional enhancements in the Leopard 2A8 involve improved armor as well as upgrades to situational awareness and fire-control systems for the crew. The tank will continue to feature Rheinmetall’s 120mm smooth-bore main cannon, consistent with previous Leopard models.
The initial deployment of the new Leopards will occur at a Bundeswehr armored formation in Lithuania, marking Germany’s first permanent troop deployment outside its borders since World War II. This unit is part of Germany’s contributions to bolster the defense of NATO’s eastern flank, which is perceived as vulnerable to Russian aggression. The brigade, consisting of 5,000 personnel, is expected to achieve full operational status by 2027, coinciding with the first deliveries of the Leopard 2A8.
In addition to Germany, several other nations, including Lithuania, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, and Norway, are also planning to procure the Leopard 2A8 for their military forces.
Sebastian Sprenger serves as the associate editor for Europe at Defense News, covering the defense market in the region and U.S.-Europe collaborations. He was previously the managing editor for Defense News and is based in Cologne, Germany.
