French Army Receives Two More New Leclerc XLR Tanks Modernized Version of Standard Leclerc.

The French Army Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) delivered two newly renovated Leclerc XLR tanks to the French Army. These were the 14th and 15th Leclerc XLR tanks to undergo significant upgrades as part of a broader modernization effort. The tanks were delivered on September 24 and 25 to two key military sites: the Provence Training Center in Canjuers, in the PACA region, and the 12th Cuirassiers Regiment in Olivet, in the Centre-Val de Loire region.
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The new French Army Leclerc XLR Main Battle Tank was displayed in June 2024 at the Eurosatory Defense Exhibition in Paris, France.  (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

Since the start of 2024, 15 Leclerc XLR tanks have been handed over to the French Army, with plans to deliver six more by the end of the year. This renovation initiative is part of a long-term effort to enhance the combat readiness of France's armored forces. The renovated tanks are equipped with technology to integrate them into the Scorpion combat system. This integration allows the tanks to share real-time tactical data with other vehicles in the Scorpion program, such as the Griffon, Jaguar, and Serval. These modernized Leclerc tanks have already received upgrades that strengthen their defenses against improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and rockets. Additionally, their combat effectiveness has been improved with new fire control systems. Further enhancements are planned, including the installation of remotely operated weapon stations by late 2025 and advanced targeting sights by 2028.

This modernization is part of a broader plan outlined in the 2024-2030 Military Planning Law (LPM). France intends to renovate 160 Leclerc tanks by 2030, with an additional 40 tanks scheduled for upgrades by 2035. Nexter Systems, the French defense contractor, has been tasked with upgrading the first 100 tanks, ensuring that the Leclerc remains a central part of the French Army’s armored forces until the arrival of the next-generation Main Ground Combat System (MGCS).

The Leclerc tank, first deployed in 1993, is a third-generation, 60-ton battle vehicle. Manufactured by Nexter until 2008, the Leclerc is operated by a three-person crew, including a commander, gunner, and driver. Armed with a 120mm cannon, the tank can fire at both stationary and moving targets at distances up to 4,000 meters, even while in motion. The Leclerc has seen action in various combat theaters, and Nexter continues to maintain the tanks’ operational readiness within the French Army’s training programs.

This renovation program ensures that the Leclerc, a key asset in France's armored capabilities, remains effective and combat-ready well into the future, as new technologies and combat systems are developed and integrated.

The Leclerc XLR introduces several significant upgrades compared to the current version of the French Army's Leclerc tank, making it better suited for modern combat. One of the key enhancements is its integration into the Scorpion combat system. This advanced system allows the tank to share real-time tactical information with other vehicles on the battlefield, such as the Griffon, Jaguar, and Serval, enabling greater coordination and situational awareness during joint operations.

In terms of protection, the Leclerc XLR has been equipped with improved armor to defend against threats like improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), both of which are prevalent in contemporary combat zones. This upgrade enhances the survivability of the tank and its crew.

Another important addition is the remote-controlled weapon station, which will be installed by 2025. This feature allows the crew to operate the tank's weapons from within the safety of the armored vehicle, providing increased flexibility and protection, especially in close-quarters combat situations such as urban environments.

The fire control system has also been upgraded, improving the tank’s main 120mm gun accuracy. The new system enhances the tank's ability to engage both stationary and moving targets over long distances, significantly increasing its effectiveness on the battlefield. In addition, by 2028, the Leclerc XLR will be equipped with advanced targeting sights, improving the tank’s ability to detect and engage enemies in various combat conditions, including night operations or environments with limited visibility.

Finally, the Leclerc XLR will be fitted with a digital battlefield management system, providing real-time data on the tank’s position, ammunition, and fuel levels. This system allows for more efficient communication with command units and other vehicles, facilitating quicker decision-making and more streamlined operations on the battlefield. These combined features make the Leclerc XLR a much more capable and adaptable vehicle than its predecessor, prepared for the challenges of modern warfare.