The Franco-German defence company KNDS has unveiled the second prototype of its new main battle tank, the Leopard 2A-RC 3.0, during a demonstration at the Klietz military training ground in Germany.
The vehicle, designated PT02, was showcased at an open day event, with footage published by the YouTube channel Militär- und Landtechnik Klaus Schröder. The platform marks a significant step in the evolution of the Leopard 2 family, adopting an unmanned turret and a redesigned crew compartment.
Video: Footage of KNDS’s new Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0 concept tank driving and firing.
In the new layout, the three crew members — commander, driver, and gunner — are seated inside the armoured hull, replacing the traditional crew space in the turret basket. This concept differs from models such as the Russian T-14 Armata, the American Abrams X, and other recent unmanned turret designs.
According to the event description, the automated turret has reduced the combat weight to under 60 tonnes, improving mobility without compromising firepower. The main armament is a 120 mm smoothbore gun, with potential future integration of 130 mm or 140 mm calibres.
The autoloader system, installed at the rear of the turret, delivers a rate of fire of up to 18 rounds per minute. The prototype is also equipped with Spike LR anti-tank guided missiles, the Israeli-made Trophy active protection system, and explosive reactive armour on the front and sides.
This configuration aims to maximise crew survivability, with the crew protected inside the hull, and reduce vulnerability to hits on the turret. The compact design also lowers the visual and radar signature on the battlefield.
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Combining firepower, layered protection, and modular flexibility, the Leopard 2A-RC 3.0 extends engagement ranges and target variety, positioning itself as a strong contender in the modern armoured warfare landscape.
Source and images: KNDS. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
