Overview
- KNDS presented the Leopard 2 A8 in Munich as the Bundeswehr’s first newly built Leopard since 1992.
- The A8 is series‑equipped with Rafael’s Trophy active protection system, featuring four radars and two launchers, plus reinforced roof and composite armor.
- Bundeswehr trials start in 2026, with fielding from 2027 to 2030 and first issue to Panzerbrigade 45 stationed in Lithuania.
- Funding for the 123 tanks totals roughly €3.4–3.5 billion, largely from Germany’s special defense fund.
- Defense Minister Boris Pistorius set a December armaments summit and pressed industry for dependable schedules and prices while advancing plans to procure 75 additional A8s.