German Main Battle Tank LEOPARD 2 A8

Plastic model kit for building a German Leopard 2 A8

• Scale 1:72
• Movable gun and turret
• Sectional tracks
• Unassembled, unpainted
• Paint and glue not included

The Leopard 2 A8 is currently the latest variant of the Leopard 2 and differs from many previous Bundeswehr versions in one key respect: the German A8s are newly manufactured vehicles rather than modernized older Leopard 2 hulls. The Bundeswehr has ordered 123 of these vehicles.

The main armament remains the Rheinmetall L55A1 120mm smoothbore gun. It is capable of firing modern ammunition such as the DM73, as well as the programmable DM11 multi-purpose round. It is complemented by two 7.62mm machine guns. The main weapon’s effective combat range is rated at up to approximately 5 km.

The significantly enhanced protection is a particularly notable feature. In addition to reinforced modular armor, the A8 comes equipped as standard with the Trophy active protection system. This system detects incoming anti-tank missiles and neutralizes them before they impact the vehicle's actual armor. Insights gained from the Leopard 2 A7A1 - previously introduced with the Trophy system as a technology demonstrator - were incorporated into the A8 configuration.

Electronics and communication systems have also undergone a comprehensive overhaul. KNDS describes a fundamental modernization of the electronic architecture, improving both internal data transfer and communication with other combat systems.

The proven Leopard propulsion concept has been retained. KNDS specifies a 1,500 hp engine and a top speed of around 65 km/h for the current Leopard 2.