MBT Developments

[John Fedup]

Decided to create a new thread for MBTs. This article mentions three current MBT designs, the CaPINT, Leo 2 A-RC 3.0 and the tank for Italy, the Leonardo-Rheinmetall project (KF51 derivative?). Although all three designs likely share some major components, surely a mass produced single (or maybe two) designs could be fielded a lot sooner?

European manufacturers unveil new main battle tank variants at Eurosatory - Breaking Defense

 

[swerve]

CaPINT is intended for France, & has a French-developed unmanned turret & gun. Leclercs are getting old, & will need replacing. It's designed & will be built by KNDS.

Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0 is also by KNDS, but all-German, for the Bundeswehr, with a different gun & unmanned turret.

The Italian KF51 variant is part of a wholesale replacement project for Italy's MBTs, IFVs, & AFVs based on them, based on the KF51 & KF41 & made in Italy. That was agreed over a year ago. The basic design is by Rheinmetall, & will be built by a Rheinmetall/Leonardo joint venture. I think CaPINT won't be ready in time, so it's not being considered.

Politics & commercial rivalries.

 

[John Fedup]

CaPINT is intended for France, & has a French-developed unmanned turret & gun. Leclercs are getting old, & will need replacing. It's designed & will be built by KNDS.

Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0 is also by KNDS, but all-German, for the Bundeswehr, with a different gun & unmanned turret.

The Italian KF51 variant is part of a wholesale replacement project for Italy's MBTs, IFVs, & AFVs based on them, based on the KF51 & KF41 & made in Italy. That was agreed over a year ago. The basic design is by Rheinmetall, & will be built by a Rheinmetall/Leonardo joint venture. I think CaPINT won't be ready in time, so it's not being considered.

Politics & commercial rivalries.

Does the KF41 have an unmanned turret? Rheinmetall hyped 130 and 140 mm guns, is that likely going to happen anytime soon as an option?

 

[SolarisKenzo]

Decided to create a new thread for MBTs. This article mentions three current MBT designs, the CaPINT, Leo 2 A-RC 3.0 and the tank for Italy, the Leonardo-Rheinmetall project (KF51 derivative?). Although all three designs likely share some major components, surely a mass produced single (or maybe two) designs could be fielded a lot sooner?

European manufacturers unveil new main battle tank variants at Eurosatory - Breaking Defense

They're all based on Leopard 2 hull (the only one in production in Europe at the moment).

Every vendor wants to pur their own turret equipment on it...

 

[SolarisKenzo]

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