First-Ever Successful 120mm Tank Ammunition Demonstration in Leopard 2 Tanks

, MINNEAPOLIS: Alliant Techsystems and General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems (GD-OTS) recently completed the first of its kind European demonstration of U.S. 120mm tank ammunition in the Leopard 2 Tank. 
 
Representatives from 12 allied nations witnessed the successful demonstrations which were conducted at the Oksboel Range and Training Area in Denmark. In total, ATK and GD-OTS fired 60 rounds of multiple types and at various temperatures from standard barrel length and extended barrel length Leopard 2's. All test objectives were met. 
 
“We have proved unequivocally that US 120mm rounds have the accuracy and firepower Leopard 2 tank commanders need to perform their mission,” said Jed Holzapfel, Vice President International Business. “The rounds performed as expected against a wide variety of targets, at different ranges and temperatures to demonstrate not just accuracy and lethality, but to ensure that they can be fired safely and effectively from the Leopard 2 tanks.” 
 
ATK and GD-OTS fired high performance KEW A2 tungsten long-rod penetrator rounds, M830A1 multi-purpose rounds, M1002 training ammunition and the new M1028 canister round. Targets included armored vehicles, simulated helicopters and a variety of witness panels. The series of tests extended over several days in mid-September and the success of the demonstration is expected to provide Leopard 2 users with cost-effective, combat proven alternatives to the current range of ammunition in European service.  
 
ATK is a $3.4 billion advanced weapon and space systems company employing approximately 15,000 people in 22 states. 
 
General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, employs approximately 72,200 people worldwide and had 2005 revenue of $21.2 billion. The company is a market leader in mission-critical information systems and technologies; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and business aviation.