Will Netherlands Transform Leopard 2A8 Tanks into UGVs for MGCS Program ?.

On October 14, 2024, the Dutch Ministry of Defense announced the acquisition of 46 Leopard 2A8 tanks in cooperation with Germany. By intentionally opting for fewer than the 52 tanks needed for a full battalion, the Dutch Ministry of Defense could be paving the way for a future partial conversion of these tanks into unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), aligning with the goals of the French-German Main Ground Combat System (MGCS) program.
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Rheinmetall Leopard 2A8 Main Battle Tank (Picture source: Army Recognition)

One intriguing possibility is that the Netherlands, by choosing to acquire 46 Leopard 2A8 tanks instead of the required 52, may be considering converting some of these tanks into UGVs. This approach would allow the Dutch armed forces to maintain sufficient tank numbers while integrating autonomous platforms capable of operating in high-risk environments without direct human exposure. If these Leopard 2A8 tanks were partially or fully converted into UGVs, they could incorporate advanced autonomous technology, threat detection sensors, and automated navigation systems. Such an approach would enhance combat capabilities, leveraging the robustness of the Leopard 2A8 while reducing human vulnerabilities, in line with MGCS objectives. This development would reinforce synergy between manned and unmanned equipment, potentially leading to a hybrid NATO fleet.

The decision to include UGVs aligns with the Main Ground Combat System (MGCS) program, a French-German collaborative project to which the Netherlands seeks to join. MGCS envisions an integrated combat system where autonomous and manned vehicles operate in synergy. This mixed fleet concept addresses contemporary challenges in mobility, protection, and effectiveness on the battlefield, combining the strength of tanks with the flexibility of robotic systems.

Integrating these autonomous vehicles would also optimize training facilities, such as Bergen-Hohne in Germany, where tanks could be stationed and tested operationally alongside autonomous systems. With a provision for an additional six tanks to be considered by 2027, the final decision will depend on technological advances in the UGV field. This approach encourages industry to accelerate the development of these technologies to meet rising military needs.

The French-German Main Ground Combat System (MGCS) project, aimed at replacing Leclerc and Leopard 2 tanks, is moving toward a hybrid design that includes both manned and autonomous combat vehicles. Rather than developing a single traditional heavy tank, MGCS aims to create a family of interconnected vehicles to maximize battlefield flexibility. This "system of systems" will include not only a primary combat tank but also unmanned support and reconnaissance vehicles that will operate in coordination with manned platforms.

The goal is to integrate advanced autonomous capabilities into these unmanned vehicles, with artificial intelligence modules for threat detection, automated navigation, and communication systems for continuous interaction among deployed units. For instance, MGCS autonomous platforms may be equipped with anti-tank missiles or 140 mm cannons and operate under the supervision of a piloted command vehicle, providing security and surveillance coverage. Developing these capabilities involves cutting-edge technologies, including active protection systems and integrated drones for reconnaissance and counter-drone defense. The work is currently divided into several "technology pillars" coordinated between Germany and France, with demonstration phases expected by 2028 and potential entry into service around 2040.

Israel and South Korea are also advancing in the development of autonomous combat vehicles, complementing European efforts, particularly through the MGCS project.

In Israel, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) use an unmanned version of the M113 armored personnel carrier, known as the "Zelda," in high-risk areas, including urban operations such as those in Rafah. These vehicles are equipped with remote-controlled weapon systems to provide fire support while minimizing personnel risk. More recently, Israel also unveiled a robotic combat vehicle, the Medium Robotic Combat Vehicle (M-RCV), which includes an integrated drone for reconnaissance missions, "Iron Fist" active protection against projectiles, and versatile weapon deployment capabilities. This vehicle, developed by Elbit Systems in partnership with the Israeli Ministry of Defense's Research and Development Directorate, reflects an advanced automation strategy to reduce soldier exposure in combat.

South Korea recently showcased significant advancements in autonomous combat vehicles at the KADEX 2024 exhibition, notably with the K9A3 and its advanced control vehicle, the K11A1 Fire Direction Control Vehicle (FDCV). The K9A3, an unmanned evolution of the K9 Thunder self-propelled artillery, is designed for long-range firing missions and autonomous navigation within "Manned-Unmanned Teaming" (MUM-T) strategies. This platform features a long-range 58-caliber gun with a firing range exceeding 80 km, thereby enhancing the South Korean army's long-distance firepower.

The K11A1 FDCV, meanwhile, represents an innovation in remote artillery control, allowing the K9A3's firing and movement to be managed without direct human intervention on the battlefield. Capable of controlling up to three K9A3s simultaneously, this vehicle integrates a Remote Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS) and reinforced armor for better protection. These features make the K11A1 particularly suited for networked operations, where operator protection is crucial. Together, the K9A3 and K11A1 underscore South Korea's commitment to integrating autonomy into defense systems for strategic operations in hostile environments, including complex mountain and urban terrains in response to the Korean Peninsula's threats.

These developments reflect a global trend toward integrating unmanned vehicles in military operations, with potential synergies with systems like MGCS in Europe, which also envisions a "manned-unmanned" approach in its future tanks and support vehicles.