Denmark's Cutting-Edge Leopard 2A7 Tanks Shine in NATO's RESOLUTE WARRIOR Exercise.

In November 2024, Denmark's newly acquired Leopard 2A7 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) demonstrated their cutting-edge capabilities during Exercise RESOLUTE WARRIOR at the Ādaži Training Area in Latvia. This advanced platform, recently integrated into Denmark's armored fleet, played a pivotal role in the exercise held from November 1 to 14, 2024. With over 3,500 allied troops participating, the event marked a key milestone for the newly formed NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia, showcasing the strength and readiness of Denmark’s modernized armored forces.
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Danish Army Leopard 2A7 Main Battle Tank maneuvers through the Ādaži Training Area in Latvia during NATO’s RESOLUTE WARRIOR 2024 exercise, showcasing advanced firepower and mobility. (Picture source: Canada MoD)

Danish forces demonstrated the Leopard 2A7's enhanced mobility and firepower during this NATO exercise by executing strategic maneuvers and repositioning to different tactical locations. These operations underscored the tank's advanced features, including improved protection, a more effective 120mm L55A1 cannon, upgraded communication systems, and enhanced air conditioning.

The Leopard 2A7, compared to its predecessor, the Leopard 2A5DK, incorporates several significant technical advancements that enhance its battlefield effectiveness. It features upgraded protection with modular armor designed to defend against both kinetic energy penetrators and shaped-charge munitions, as well as improved mine resistance and protection against IED threats. The main armament, a 120mm L55A1 smoothbore gun, delivers higher muzzle energy and is optimized to use next-generation ammunition, significantly increasing its capability to neutralize modern armored threats. The tank is also equipped with state-of-the-art optics and targeting systems, including third-generation thermal imaging, which enhances situational awareness and precision targeting in all weather conditions and during night operations.

The Leopard 2A7 also benefits from improved power management systems and enhanced mobility, making it more capable in diverse terrains. Advanced onboard systems improve crew comfort and efficiency, with features such as better air conditioning for operations in extreme climates and upgraded communication systems to ensure seamless integration into modern network-centric warfare environments.

Denmark's journey with the Leopard 2A7 began with the acquisition of surplus German Leopard 2A4 tanks in 1998. These tanks were initially upgraded to the 2A5DK standard between 2004 and 2006. In 2019, Denmark commenced a comprehensive modernization program to elevate 44 of its Leopard 2A5DK tanks to the 2A7 standard. The first upgraded units were delivered by Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) in 2019, with the final tank received on September 21, 2023, completing the modernization process.

The deployment of Danish Leopard 2A7 tanks to Latvia signifies Denmark's commitment to NATO's collective defense initiatives. Exercise RESOLUTE WARRIOR 2024 provided an opportunity to test the operational readiness and interoperability of these advanced MBTs within a multinational framework. The exercise emphasized the brigade's proficiency in force projection, command and control, and communication, ensuring seamless integration among subordinate, enabling, and supporting units.

The participation of Danish Leopard 2A7 tanks in Exercise RESOLUTE WARRIOR 2024 highlights Denmark's dedication to enhancing its military capabilities and contributing to NATO's defense posture in the Baltic region. The successful modernization and deployment of these MBTs demonstrate Denmark's strategic commitment to maintaining a robust and modern armored force capable of operating effectively within multinational alliances.