Armor: March 22, 2000

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: Germany has upgraded its Leopard-2A4s into Leopard-2A5s, incorporated several improvements. These included: 

@ replaced hydraulic gun control and stabilization system with an all-electric system.

@ Improved recoil system to allow later upgrading of the 120mm cannon to the L55 type.

@ roof-mounted commander's "hunter" scope with thermal viewer mode.

@ enhanced frontal armor for better protection.

@ new sliding hatch for the driver.

@ rear-view television camera allowing high-speed movement in reverse.

@ GPS and fiber-optic navigation system.

@ improved data processor for the laser rangefinder. The company (Krauss-Maffei Wegmann) is exploring further improvements.

@ Swedish Strv-122s (modified Leopard-2A5s) have enhanced armor to protect against top attack, a new laser rangefinder, and modular Tank Command & Control system.

@ Spanish Leopard-2A6s have the longer L55 cannon, an auxiliary power unit, and a new electrically-driven air conditioner mounted in the turret bustle.

@ Company test vehicles have used the 1,500hp EuroPowerPack, which provides more power and takes less volume. This would allow it to carry more fuel or ammunition.--Stephen V Cole