General Dynamics European Land Systems - Santa Bárbara Sistemas (GDELS-SBS) displays for the first time in Europe during FEINDEF 2023, a defense exhibition in Madrid Spain, its LT105 a new generation of light tank based on the tracked armored vehicle ASCOD.
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General Dynamics European Land Systems - Santa Bárbara Sistemas displays its new Light Tank LT105 during FEINDEF 2023, a defense exhibition in Madrid, Spain. (Picture source Army Recognition)
The innovation and flexibility of the Multipurpose Common Platform concept that defines and characterizes the design of the ASCOD/PIZARRO family of vehicles favors the constant evolution and integration of advanced and disruptive technologies, and a quick and flexible adaptation to the requirements of each client”, affirmed Juan Escriña, Managing Director of GDELS-SBS and Vice President of Tracked Vehicles and Artillery of GDELS. In this sense, he added that the two new variants have been developed in record time, taking advantage of earlier lessons learned and the commitment to permanent innovation of GDELS-SBS that reinforces Spain’s position as a benchmark for this type of tracked combat vehicle.
Escriña stressed that very few countries in the world have the national and autonomous capacity offered by GDELS-SBS in the design, development, manufacturing, and integral maintenance of next-generation armored vehicles. “ASCOD is an excellently protected platform, configurable for all kinds of specific tasks and missions, and operable within a capability network to efficiently manage force multipliers and mission systems in a multi-domain environment,” he emphasized.
More than 1,000 ASCOD armored vehicles are currently in service or under contract with the Armed Forces of four nations: Spain, Austria, the United Kingdom, and the Philippines.
The new light tank version of the ASCOD is equipped with a modern 105mm turret from the Israeli company Elbit Systems that combines high firepower with a light platform. The vehicle meets the highest international standards in terms of protection and retains the excellent mobility that has always been the hallmark of ASCOD, nationally and internationally. This new variant provides a flexible
The concept of a light tank, such as the LT105 displayed by General Dynamics European Land Systems - Santa Bárbara Sistemas (GDELS-SBS), seeks to merge the advantages of a main battle tank (MBT) while significantly reducing the overall weight of the vehicle.
Main Battle Tanks are traditionally characterized by their heavy firepower, strong armor protection, and strategic mobility. They typically weigh in at 60 tons or more, depending on the model and additional equipment. While this heavy armor provides them with excellent protection and firepower, it can hinder their mobility in certain terrains and transportation scenarios.
In contrast, light tanks like the LT105 are designed to weigh between 30 to 35 tons, nearly half of the weight of a standard MBT. This reduced weight significantly enhances their mobility, enabling them to navigate challenging terrains more effectively and be transported more easily by air or sea.
Despite their reduced weight, light tanks are designed to pack a punch on par with their heavier counterparts. The LT105, for instance, is equipped with a 105mm turret from Elbit Systems, providing it with substantial firepower. Its design also ensures compliance with the highest international protection standards, just like an MBT.
In essence, the concept of a light tank is to create a more agile, easily deployable vehicle without compromising on firepower or protection. This balance of features makes light tanks a versatile asset in modern warfare, capable of performing a range of specific tasks and missions in various theaters of operations.
