The Leopard 2 was an offshoot of the MBT-70 -- a cancelled joint development project between the USA and West Germany undertaken in the late 1960s. Even though the US had withdrawn from the project, the West Germans, under the auspices of Krauss-Maffei, continued research and development on the renamed Leopard 2 project. In 1977, the first production vehicles were delivered and exported to the smaller Dutch Army while the West German Bundeswehr waited a couple of years before it too was equipped with the powerful new main battle tank. The Leopard 2 is outfitted with a laser rangefinder, thermal-imaging equipment, and nuclear, biological and chemical defense system (NBC), and can conduct shallow amphibious operations. Its fire control system is unusual because the cartridge cases are combustible, which can lead to internal fires. The Leopard 2 has a 30% better power-to-weight ratio than the Leopard I, which results in increased cross-country mobility and a higher survivability rate on the battlefield.

Pictured here is a 1:72 scale replica of a German Leopard 2A7 Pro main battle tank in a digital camouflage pattern. Now in stock!

Dimensions:
Length: 5-1/4-inches
Width: 2-inches

Release Date: April 2023

Historical Account: "Urban Opeerations" - The Leopard 2A7 retains the engine of its predecessor. It is powered by an MTU MB-873 Ka-501 turbocharged diesel, developing 1 500 hp. This dated engine proved to be reliable and fuel efficient, but is bulky by modern standards. This MBT is also fitted with Steyr auxiliary power unit, which powers all systems, when the main engine is turned off. Despite increase in weight vehicle has increased mobility due to improved suspension components. Cross-country performance is similar to that of the 2A5 and 2A6 tanks. This main battle tank can be fitted with a front-mounted dozer blade for self-entrenching and clearing obstacles. Mine ploughs or mine rollers can also be attached. A number of variants have been developed for different purposes and client nations.

The Leopard 2A7Q is a version supplied to Qatar. This tank has a number of changes, that are not found of the German Leopard 2A7 tanks. It has got additional hull armor kit, top attack protection, different remotely-controlled weapon station, modified auxiliary power unit, camouflage system.

The Leopard 2A7V is an improved and upgraded version of the older Leopard 2 series tank to the 2A7 standard. In 2017-2019 German army ordered 205 of these tanks. A total of 68 Leopard 2A4, 67 Leopard 2A6, 50 Leopard 2A6M2 and 20 Leopard 2A7 tanks will be upgraded to the -2A7V standard. First prototype was delivered for trials and evaluation in 2018. Deliveries to the German army commenced in 2019 and are planned to be completed in 2026.

The Leopard 2A7HU is a modified version for the Hungary. In 2018 Hungary ordered a total of 44 Leopard 2A7 tanks with some improvements and modifications tailored for local needs.

The Leopard 2A7A1 is an upgraded version, fitted with Trophy active protection system. In 2021, Germany has signed a contract to purchase the Israeli Trophy protection systems for its tanks. Initially it was planed that only a company of 17 Leopard 2A7V tanks will be equipped for the NATO Very High Readiness Joint Task Force. Though Raphael expects procurement of additional Trophy systems from Germany. In 2021, at lease a couple of Leopard 2A7V tanks were upgraded to the "2A7A1" standard.

The Leopard 2A8 is a further development of the Leopard 2A7. In 2023, it was expected that German armed forces will make an initial order for 18 of these tanks. The tank is equipped with a Trophy active protection system and reportedly uses a new 1 600 hp engine.