Germany Develops Next-Gen Leopard 2AX as Alternative to Joint MGCS Project and Existing Leopard 2A8 Tank.

Despite joint Franco-German efforts to advance the Future Main Battle Tank (MGCS) project, Germany is actively working on an alternative that could challenge the bilateral cooperation in this field. The Leopard 2AX, an improved version of the Leopard 2A8 battle tank, is being developed by the German defense industry at the express request of the Bundeswehr.
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KNDS Leopard 2A7+ Main Battle Tank (Picture source: KNDS)

This project, which was shrouded in mystery until recently, is designed to serve as an interim battle tank between the already in-service Leopard 2A8 and the future MGCS. More alarmingly, this development also serves as a Plan B for Germany in case of failure of the Franco-German program, or even as a lever in future negotiations, thus confronting France with a fait accompli regarding the crucial decisions that remain to be made.

The recent progress announced in the MGCS program, supposed to mark an effective relaunch of this Franco-German initiative, could be overshadowed by this unilateral move by Germany. While Paris and Berlin had promised close collaboration to develop the next generation of European main battle tanks, the German approach could indicate a lack of confidence in the rapid materialization of the MGCS, or a desire to maintain strategic autonomy in the manufacture of its military equipment.

The Leopard 2AX is not just a response to a potential failure of the MGCS, but also represents a perhaps more pragmatic German view of risk management in such a complex and costly project. This development raises significant questions about the future of European military cooperation and the long-term viability of the Franco-German defense partnership.

The implications of this German Plan B could be significant, not only for the balance of power within the European Union but also for the dynamics of the European defense industry, often torn between cooperation and national competition.

As a reminder, the MGCS (Main Ground Combat System) program is a Franco-German initiative aimed at developing a new generation main battle tank to replace the currently in-service Leopard 2 and Leclerc tanks. Launched with the intent to strengthen European defense cooperation, the MGCS aims to integrate the latest advancements in armor technology, armament systems, sensors, and electronic warfare. The tank is planned to be highly modular, with enhanced survivability features, increased firepower, and extensive integration of information and communication systems, making the MGCS adaptable to various combat environments and capable of addressing future threats.

As for the future Leopard 2AX, it is envisioned as a substantial improvement over the Leopard 2A8, incorporating technologies and enhancements derived from recent battlefield experiences. This tank is expected to offer better protection with advanced active and passive protection systems, superior firepower with potentially new types of ammunition or an improved armament system, and enhanced capabilities in connectivity and digital command for better interoperability in multinational operations. The Leopard 2AX is designed to provide a technological and capability bridge between the current generations of tanks and the future MGCS, while offering Germany a robust and autonomous option in case of delays or failure of the Franco-German project.

KNDS Leopard 2A8 Main Battle Tank (Picture source: Army Recognition)