Leopard 2A5

   The Leopard 2A5 main battle tank is a radically improved variant of the Leopard 2. It was introduced in 1990. A total of 225 German army Leopard 2 main battle tanks were upgraded to the 2A5 standard by 1998. At that time the Leopard 2A5 was referred as the best main battle tank in the world. Export operators are Denmark and Sweden. Norway plans to upgrade it's Leopards to the 2A5 standard.

   The 2A5 has significantly improved armor protection comparing with it's predecessor. Turret is fitted with a wedge-shaped modular add-on armor. Modular add-on armor panels were also fitted at the front of the hull. Damaged armor modules can be easily replaced in field conditions. New side skirts were fitted and interior of the vehicle is lined to prevent spalling.

   The Leopard 2A5 also received a more powerful armament. It is fitted with improved 120-mm / L44 smoothbore gun. Fire control system of this MBT was also improved.

   Secondary armament is similar to that on the Leopard 2 and consists of two 7.62-mm machine guns. One of them is coaxially mounted with the main gun, while another is placed on top of the roof.

   Engine of this vehicle remained unchanged. It is powered by MTU MB-837 Ka501 turbocharged diesel engine, developing 1 500 horsepower. The Leopard 2A5 can be fitted with a deep wading kit.

Variants

   Leopard 2A5 DK, variant with some modifications, used by the Danish Army;

   Strv 122, a Swedish license-produced variant. It has improved armor protection and new fire control system;

   Leopard 2A6 further development of the Leopard 2A5, fitted with a longer gun.