On 19 December 2018, as part of its modernization process, Hungary signed a contract for the procurement of 44 new Leopard 2 A7+ main battle tanks and 24 new PzH 2000 howitzers with German defense company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW). In addition, Hungary is acquiring 12 used Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks from KMW’s inventories for training purposes. The project represents a further step toward greater interoperability between European armed forces.
Leopard 2A7+ displayed at Eurosatory 2010 (Picture source: Army Recognition)
Hungarian Defense Minister Tibor Benkő emphasized that the contract would strengthen the smooth and extensive cooperation between the German and the Hungarian Armies.
The Leopard 2A7+ is a development of the Leopard 2A6 and benefits from enhanced protection and reconnaissance capabilities. The tank was unveiled during Eurosatory 2010, in France. It has been tested and qualified by the German Army. The MBT is presently deployed in Afghanistan by Canada under NATO command. Germany’s Federal Security Council approved a deal to sell up to 200 units to Saudi Arabia in July 2011.
The Leopard 2A7+ employs digitised technology and multifunctional user concept for improved sustainability. The tank weighs 67,5 tonnes and is crewed by four. At the outside, a communication interface enables interaction with dismounted soldiers. The Leopard 2A7+ is equipped with a FLW 200 modular remote controlled light weapon station that provides active self-defense. The system has an automatic vehicle detection capability.
The MBT’s gun is a 120mm L55/L44 smooth bore gun, which can fire standard NATO ammunition and new programmable 120mm HE-rounds. The gunner’s station is fitted with an EMES 15 stabilised main sight and a FERO Z18 auxiliary sighting telescope. The driver is provided with a combined thermal imager / image intensifier night vision for front and rear view. The tank can also be fitted with additional power generators with increased power rating for conducting checkpoint missions.
The tank is equipped with a modular protection kit with passive armour modules to offer 360° protection to the crew from anti-tank missiles, mines, improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) fire.
The commander’s station of the Leopard 2A7+ MBT incorporates a new PERI RTWL stabilised glass optical periscope for day and night reconnaissance over long distances. The periscope consists of a third-generation Attica thermal imaging device, a daylight CCD camera, an image fusion function, fibre optical gyros, and an eye-safe laser range-finder.
The Leopard 2A7+ is powered by a V-12 MTU MB 873 engine, which develops 1,500 hp and enables the tank to reach a maximum speed of 72 km/h. It has a cruising range of 450 km.
