Russia Begins Reverse Engineering on German Leopard 2A6 Tank Captured in Ukraine.

The German-made Leopard 2A6 tank, captured in Ukraine by Russian forces, has arrived at Uralvagonzavod in Nizhny Tagil. Engineers at the factory plan to thoroughly study this captured vehicle. According to the official statement from the group, the 60-ton tank has been placed on special jacks, and the team has begun dismantling its components and systems. The specialists aim to evaluate the technical and military capabilities of the Leopard 2A6.
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The Leopard 2A6 is a main battle tank designed in Germany, and used by many countries worldwide including Ukraine. (Picture source: UVZ)

After a detailed examination and analysis of the results, an expert evaluation of the tank's systems and its overall combat performance will be provided, as stated in the report. Footage of the tank shows that it is in relatively good condition, although the gun appears to have been damaged by shrapnel. Other potential damages remain speculative at this point.

Russian tank developers are particularly interested in the fire control system, the gun stabilizer (E-WNA system), the thermal imaging equipment, and the improved braking system. It is also publicly known that the Leopard 2A6 received an upgraded turret rotation mechanism in 2001. Compared to earlier models, the rear part of the turret was significantly redesigned to allow additional storage space.

The Leopard 2A6 is a main battle tank designed in Germany, renowned for its advanced capabilities, and used by many countries worldwide, including Austria, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Poland, and more recently, Ukraine. This tank is equipped with a powerful 120mm L55 smoothbore gun, complemented by a 7.62mm coaxial machine gun and a 7.62mm anti-aircraft machine gun mounted on the loader’s hatch. These features make it a formidable offensive platform in various types of engagements.

To ensure the protection of the crew and internal systems, the Leopard 2A6 has standard multilayer spaced armor, with enhanced protection at the front of the turret. Additionally, the interior of the turret is fitted with spall liners, reducing the risk to the crew in the event of armor penetration.

Weighing approximately 62 tons in combat conditions, this tank also boasts great mobility. It can reach a top speed of 72 km/h on roads, providing impressive speed for a vehicle of its size. In terms of range, the Leopard 2A6 can travel up to 500 km before needing refueling, allowing it to sustain prolonged operations.

The tank is designed to be operated by a crew of four, which is optimal for managing its various systems and maximizing combat effectiveness. In terms of dimensions, the Leopard 2A6 measures 7.70 meters in length, 3.70 meters in width, and 3.00 meters in height, combining firepower, protection, and mobility in a relatively compact format for a tank of its class.

Finally, the Leopard 2A6 is equipped with various modern technologies, such as infrared night vision, and has an NBC (Nuclear, Biological, Chemical) protection system, further enhancing its ability to operate in hostile environments.

The capture and subsequent study of this type of technology is certainly not good news for Ukraine's allies, but it is important to put things in perspective. Although the Leopard 2A6 is one of the most modern tanks in the Ukrainian forces, its design is more than 20 years old. Therefore, the latest technologies are not found inside this main battle tank, but it remains a significant prize for Russian forces.

A German Leopard 2A6 Main Battle Tank during the Strong Europe Tank Challenge. (Picture source: US DoD)