MON COLOR SER LEOPARD 2/2RSNTRODUCTION Leopard 2 bat anks tom the backbone of NNTO' armoced uns. Moby, Heqowar ond amex eieton ore bolonced ogee 0 Me optimum in mis wenpans system, ond shows nthe reeds of igh elaliy ond opting stay. Bacause o Ine outsidng results cchived by to orks power 120mm gun, the Leopard 2 Teams have ven frames! recogriton in any of NATOS ifsmatonel competitors, Suh os the Canadion Amy Tosty (CAD. The Leopard 2 weopors system has now ‘gn uo for 16 years fhe ak nc Tank ecannassonce unis te Geman Ary 5 velo cor tr NATO pots, “he daicenen of Me Leb 2 wos ined in 1969 wh the nd of te venmentloeement beeen the Fede Reputc ef Garreny an ta USA on he {nail Tork 70" ijt. The cevlopmnil cms, wen worse say igh ct at Tie, could no ba felzed because cf Re coi, which had exceed DM 830 rin, Tha inzeasing final equremens fred he join} GomanAmioan “Tank TOA Bots Tok 70" projec fo be abandoned. Bah counties now cancatted rec fos fn ie daveopmeni cl ihc evn naeno projects. The US bul he RYT and Germany Sonatas on in utr dawson th Sopa 1 Ae begining a 1S7D Ihe Geren Army decide fo develop complealy new type ol ans, ma Leopa 2° based onthe axpemeno| calmer of he “Soden Leaport tot ws exnirued olong wih the jor Kaz 70° jest Kew Mat In Munch was see os in genotl contactor fhe dselopent of te re Looped le ork because o hr exarence in eonshucig te Loopad nha nef years 17 prepa urls fia wih TOS and 120mm guns rom Rhema wee Mate, os welds 16 chassis. Te ccmpony clieed as! potoypas athe Leaps 2K bate one em 1972 % 1973 ‘he Yorn Kippur wor of 1873 baught abot anew way cf nkng nthe Duis ‘far constucton the easton af tha knowledge gained forte IxeekEgypion War Shaw fo ork piokclon wos mow valuable fren pceiouly seid. AS 0 ‘eu he Looper 2 wos fia wih row tet wih moe pan Inte mile ot Ihe 1970s eto wae ofensive ids or compateors made in Gamay ond in he USA Two (card 2 bole orks ware la ha USA wna @ series of compesors et made win tne XM). The ocvonioges of he Leopard 2 were ley shown. The Jos gunna eed, been exchanges ormore power 120mm gunn Ame.) frote goa ofine extises mime LSA wos lo ded on a in staal coments lect ti ans, bu noting mere Ran an ogee ois tho 120mm gun 9 fatn not ond ns Lecpard 2 wos hie, Wit he puchas of he weapons sslen approved by fe Gorman Misty of Diese Lsopard 2 was ofeal esnoa to the Geman public in 1977. Atha end 111979 tno fisl toni Lepore 2 tanks were calneres fo Porzehebegade 9 in Munsee Leopard 2 of ne atten rad no Memes maging Gavoe, tu was ined In the second bofeh os stndore equpment. A Mis Aine the second Irnuloctrer of the Legpard 2, MAK in Kel, wos ill exptimentng ond okng ‘sens nth on eensructon between fo USA ani Germany, The nsooon of ‘eH gos turbine AGT 1600% 11008 mine Laopad 2 tank wos stopped becouse of Het 28. tween 1879 and 1992, ofl of 2.126 Lecpad 2 ta ors, os wal 8 Tb amore covey vel — he Bergapenz 3 BUNA” (based onthe Leopard oss) — were monutacure in 8 Bases Cokes) by Krus-Masal in uch and app MAK in Ki The Geman Army designaiad he Leopard 20! Pe second and tid ues os “HY od rete venison tes bleh oo tha "A. Yi fit wh Fe new SEN 800 roto oe known as Leepad 243. The Geron Amy eos howe or the th Dathhe Leopard 2¢ ‘echigspaneebatalion & eoa\e tho as way of Looprd 284 tom the ah bath Dang th roto of he ee ea alces, zens an rails wee mode. ‘heal he Garman amy wie ong al tne Leopard? bate rks up othe same ume songaa Ms! a he 2cpar 2 lrks of he Garman Amy othe Aa oper 285 KWS (creased Bale Aby) ‘Wie goa of manning suparoy on te bolle ine ute, tho “Leopard src” ged to cavelop increased fam abe. Th patel aes of a KS tt imgrowed ome prfsion the tute eo, 08 Wall os Ineo nigh iy ert arving cory while tg on ite move n Baie, Ths ype 0 ald ne “oma Cantqueon” 1 1992 fe Gemon fam dectad 0 elt 225 of th Legpars 2 tee oe A ston and oe ork tans fr eocng fo cues. The enosis ot alt 6 7 ond 8 wae etiad or nis purpose, os wre theo tures of bos T, 2 bx! 3 The cox proton on te note here! ord tet sous wos anixced i hs pai pars othe ole module of he th gern techesog, wes can Tei sora is by KE (Kinetic Ena) onemunflon and hallow coed srols ower re on’ are weigh nano norased by Mes Hom 85 lonnes Yo 62.5 ‘ones KE APISOS-T enruriton wih na eosng cs wal os mulh-pupose HEAFMPT can te ted om he Leopard 2 frown 120mm gun Tho APFSDS-T shal can pentxe thy ht fark clos ond mat ne ork tos wie onaraing F. so, wo 7-62 incline gus ore provi fr sel cles, Thnk oc more power, ly een, ecponsloasng sytem (necesaryteoaiso of Me heavy tut weigh), he Lezoara AS Yeas i ge HS SghS Eon of fl Spee Eve ough Youn. The gh Comput oe gunners EMES-15 stoize fee-contol compute exces he speed ‘the forge by ser nso in foetens ofa second. In conncton wth he woop Joogng ist rio it probably combat la islones of 2.500 rs (2.732 YO) sone 80%. Area nial Hom th KS Ish inreosed poor wecher ang ight otto ci Te Lear 248 commander casos. carols Sighs he wee tn PPERL-R 1782 parseope wih inlopaed terme maging Gee, ct right and in poe ‘wen Inependet of he quer har imaging deve. Te ork cammancet can ota parcramic recomolsanot, but he gure eke is im inept fis, $9 fhe hurl Kl undten fas ersirod a ig, The commande can sl supers ond ‘onal is gunner by onsenng the dia of the gunner a his ow mnie. Tha ve fa Lopard 286 has caine’ lorie opplones and con oko soe aa ce toch te Pip ofa vaso Monto. The heute gaa have ou ear ond uo tevtse oor ond he 1.500 HP 12-cyinder BATU ME 873 desel eng can ‘rela he Laopat 2 up io 7 an (4&5 mph). na 100-lorater set more, Ine Lepord 2 uses 218 tess (134 gals) of ese uk. the Leoperd 25 range ot ‘ace fe 550 lorie 342 mile), ond tvon-meo fea)wide rence ad 1.10 ae (5 ea) high was are no nde fhe nk ess country dies. The DM 8.5 milion Leopard 24S RWS ste mos mogun ond power bat onk in th wold ody, Eo-Leopod 2 The Neefonds wos the frst NATO member fo put Leopard 2 beta rks — 465 silopeher — ita series beeen 1982 ond 1985, The Ouch Army oso sald 114 Leopard 284 tks fo Asta in 1997. Of he reining Legpard 284 ba forks, 180 ‘icles wil intlly be reid Yo ho Lacparé 285 ondard i lea he rest ‘wl reniualytosor@ KWS vets O60. The Duh Ami ik hos 26 Baigcanae 3 Bige amoied eave while In 1864, foforing exersive comparison tess wh the Amtcon MT, natal Suizeiana lo decid io intosuoe 38D Leopars 2 bate fnks to ssa. They ‘a mainly be bon Suiza unde Knee cn il bs cle Leopard York 87" ‘na beq ming ot 1900 the isn Amy aso show inet Leopard bate ‘ork as vplocmen er he Challenger 1, In campers fe in Gc Ban, Leopard 2 fon ist place bead al he Anstiean Abrams Mand fe Chalenge 2, ut ‘ne Challenger wil be gen wc fx goto! reosens (employer opps) In op sn Sedan in 1994 tn Leopard 2 tus Ne demands me On ‘supossing bon tim Ars Ml ont the Fench Leer. Thon Sweden ised 160 Sev 12) “Lepr 284” rom he Geran Amy fo: 15 yers. One hunt tant ne St 122 Lecpors 286" wl te manufectued, and onoher 90 Sty 122 “Leeper 285" ond 17 Biel ormered reowey vehicles are planes, There wil be some futhor Improveranis mado on the Swedish Stv 122 “Leopard 245° (compored to ite ‘etmaDutch vrsion) such as: era ona on he chasis (Spal Lines), exo mor fan fe Rut root, mack ex and cont system (TOGS) 0S wal cs ste Toe sais GAMAN fses) In 1985/36 Spain ered 108 Leoport 2 bate forks om stocks ote Geman Amy fo enupong the heory Euxocos ints. Ancrr 219 Loca 2AS vehicles oe lo be bu under Icense, austio has puchosed 114 Legpd 2M NL fom the Dich locos, in he cous of Holnds ams reducon, on wl rf ht ank baton th these, which ov presenty equipped wih the od MGOK3. Denmark has aso shown ines! in akg overused Leoprd 2 Tonks fam fe Geman Amy. Based on rar prstive expats wi ha iad 1 bale nk afte acopon of hs Lecpars 2 ‘seeps syste kl, summary The Leoprd2 bot fork hos bon inodueed In sx European counts, nd he |20nm smooth gun oe Leopard 2 hos bon ntl n he Amoroon Aboms IAT an, Testing & toirg cated oe inceos the repower hough nating hs ‘reous Dorel etine 120mm smeanboe gun Yom &eabor ng ef Ua to UBS by 1130 mols (4.3 Se) ag proving ne rs wih proved ommution. So fr no use fas been mode of Ihe tease ty Re eigme cup The tal slogan te fesloprent ate Leopars 2 soda bene titeg a 140mm bate ark gn long wih he suanos of spel nmunton or fing hicoois. fom the manJoce fof he st andra vehes in 1079 nil fy. he Lnpard 2 tas bean cxrtewaly ‘mottaied in Ie as! fecal contin. Wi sho inersosing daed fx fo me ‘weapons ss fr many bot ta unis of NATO ond non NATO counts, # shout remn so or foresees aut ‘nani are exended io me Panzetrigade 2 “Odeo”, oersteenent Sater ‘ans Haupmann Joos the Porwabctlion 53, Obereferant Brus, os wal os Araaas Krcthot Egon War, Roland Hochsote, Wollgora Langwushi, Habe Holand Pate Bune Aberelaians Pz = Ponztallien (Tank baton zB Ponzanotiln Clank org baton) (Gabel Gabrgspanzeatailon (Mourn fk baton)ORGANIZATION CHART: BATTALION (ORGABAT) Panzertataiion (armored battalion) anmy Structure 5) | Ast Company — HHG (Headquarters/eadauarters Company) Shoulder naage of 8 Battalion command group ‘1x Leopard of Battalion command (GE) Panzercuision D caagaT Otuaeciel tial -Signal section 2x M3 command post te -ScoutRecce platoon 6X Wolf ATU, 16x Krad motartke AN Ambulance platoon R | —_-Aosistics platoon Ny | -Mhaimenance niatoon 4x Bergepanzer 3 Biiftel ARV K 2nd, 3rd, au, Sth Armored Company each vith “Company command squat ‘tx Wolf, 1x Leoward 2, 2x truck four platoons 13x Leonard 2 Shoulder badge of 7 ae a (Ge) Panzeraision Crew, Mobility and Firepower of the Leopard 2 Battle Tank Shoulder badge of 10 (GE) Panzersivision Shauiser oadge of Kampituppenschuia (combat The Federal Republic of Germany and the USA parted ways after the ‘Ballo Tank 70" project tas cancelled. The troop scheod, the taining {USA thon built the M Abrams batts tank, and Germany began Aeveloping @ camptely new tank, the ln of tne Germas army ist Mi Abrams siandard vehicles were filed with the 108mm gun, Laler the German 120mm Aheinmetal gun ofthe Lenk recanrisearva Leopard 2 battle tank Wau be Installed on the MAI version of the Abrams, This photo shows an Mt of inoctianioed Bie, Cavalry Ragiment and a Leopara 24d (Sth batch) tank of Parzerbtalion 288 during “Reforger &8° Langweuch).— _ = Se [Sa eee er Seeers erent TE Ae co cae vhel/ apne anneal oer HOM HIRT aE FPS Gres ordas cpscirg fo dracon and pecs lo te aves enlcornos keponer hi bole Thea penal for be tank on he insrustions of the cornmande. Tha quan is respon rves tne heavy, 55-onne Leopara 2 batt ble for fing tye anes 120mm gun under direction of the commander. The fourth member the crew isthe assistant gunner who loads the 120mm gun wit cartidges weighing belwaen 19 and 23 Kg (22 and 60 Ib) He is also rosponsibe for perating the ant-aitrait macnine gun onthe turret, The Leopad 2 tres KE munitions (KE = Kinetic enargy impact projectile wit intial high speed) rom te {om L/84 emoothbore gun, which s caled the APFSDS-7 seen at let in this photo. At right 's tha MZ munitans (MZ = Al-purpase hallow charged and etocation shells witha low starting speed), also known as HEAT-MP. vhtch can bo used ageinst all targets, including bunkors. Tho cartidgos aro fred rithou casings. Central Europe is threadod with many rivers 1 laos, The Leopard 2 ‘an cross lakes of ona meter (3.3 fect) in dopth ‘aching supplementary reased 10 2.25 meters (7.7 fee) ‘Looper! 2 bate tank of 4th Company of Panzerbatalion 631s fited vith a spacial snorkel. Using this snorkel iis possible to dive undervat 16 depth of4 meters (13 factA Leopard 2 of Panzorbatallon 2/43 is shown hero al the raiway station at Haya it Cctober 1890. Bunng troop taining exercises the Leopard 2 tank batalons of the German ‘Army ate roved by ral. The German Army fither uses their own ral ears for this or they rent them trom German Railways. Because of the exracide load ofthe Leopars 2, the heavy front tack aprons are tipped up durng rall lrangpor. Ftom the fifth baton on, he munkions fon the left side of the IT 200'o" _ Emblem of Panzerpatailon 143, Panzerbrigade 14,5 (GE) Panzetchison, ‘The oross-country abilty of the Leopare 2 ie pressive, The tank ‘The S5.tome Leopard 2 battle chassis has a giound clwarance of §4D mm (1.7 feat) so he vehicle can ctolod, 12-cyindor MTU MB 873 dlesal engine that provides 1,500 HP a cb a wall hats 1,10 meter (3.6 feet high and has the ably to cross a 3 2,600 revs, giving a poweriweight ratio of 27 HP per ton. The powertweigh meter (96 lee!) wéle trenoh. The 1,500 HP diesel engine provides the reli for 2 "Bate Tank 70" is 32.8 HP per metic ton, Leopard 2 wit the necessary mobily on te tes of bate, Panzerbatailon during the “Frommer Schwepzermann 9" maneuver on the troop training ground of the US. 7h Army at Hohenfels. The ch ‘ofthe Leopard 2, which ismourtes on a torsion bar suspension, has a ‘good record for safeOrigin and Meaning of the Insignia of the Leopard 2 Battalions of Panzerbrigade 12 “Obernfalz” (as at October 1990) ‘The yollow knight's helmet is the special symbol of the Panzerbatallon 123, the second Leopard 2 tank battalion of Panzeragade 12, thet was applied to every vehicle of the unt. The helmet wes orginally worn by the armies of krighis in the tath century Symbolizing the hare-hiting power of highly mobile woos, the helmat is used today as an emélem by modern tank nis. In 1974 the helmet was adopted as the oficial unit insignia of the Ambergor Penzerbatallon 123, It was customary for he Leepard 2 tank battalions ‘ofthe Gorman Amy i put their batlaton insignia onthe front of the tel. The insignia of the Leopard 2 tank battalions of Panzerbrigads 12 was in yellow Panzerbeallon 121 had a sword in a trangls for her inigria, The swore! is doubiewedgad, which = supposed to empacize thet staius as a combat unit and show that two edges — iank and tank grenadier — ar needed for proper operation Insignia of Panzorbatailon 128, Panzarbrigada 12. paintes a ha front af the Leopard 2 turret. The signa o Pei 123 shows the “knight Helmet of Soyriod Schweppermann who hve inthe th stun Another Leopard 2 tank battalion of Panzerbrigad 12. was Panzerbatallon 124, In June 1969 the insignis of the unit was presented for the fst time atthe tot anniversary of the formation of the battalion, In th middle ofthe yellow insignia tore isa Yon a tank rack the sign of he heavy unit, similar othe ¥ emblem ofthe former 7-Panzerdvision in the Secone Word War. A tyes Leopard 2 tank battalions of Panzerbigade 12 Were dissolved because ofthe altered poiical situation ln the world and the reduction of troops inthe German Army at the Beginning of the 1990s. This photo was taken at the German(Canadian exeroge “Royal Sword 0"‘Charging Knight insignia ot a Panzorbatalton 33 Leopard 2 tank, painted on the fren sia ofthe turret. The yellow "Wolfsangel" isthe maneuver marking at Hohenfels, in January 1096. Leopard 241 to A4 in Action with the German Bundeswehr During the army exorcise “Fino Ig or sass in Septemaer 1984, tre Leopard 2 was ee ie Subjected fa the frst time tothe aurcens of é large-scale maneuvers. In order 10 test Interoperability, Panzerbatallon 241 {consisng of a company of Mis (105mm) Abrams of at Batiaion, 64th Armered, US Sid infantry Divison, a company of Leopard 25 and a company of Marder personnel faders) waa. formed, The logistical problems ofthe various types of bate tanks proved a be cific to overcome. The M1 tankhad tobe supplied with other operating materials and raquted an addtional share Of supply and mainienance personnel in Panzerbatailon 241. Seen here is a Lesparo 2a) (Batch 20) of Panzerbetailon 247 ung the "Fnkar Igel 84” manouv abled olve-groen with mud camoutiage, which was normal dung lags maneuvers baler the German Bundeswe introduce iis ree-color camoullage. (E. Merk) Leopard 2a3 of riehrbatailon 94, Panzeriehrorigade 9, part of the “Aggressor Fores’ near Soliau during the army exerese "Trutzge Sachsen 85". Bogimng wih batch numbor 4 the factories in Munich and Kiel detvered all Leopard 2battlo tanks 10 the German Army with the new three- color camoutlage of bronze-green, leather brown and tar black, Ths news German tee-color camoufiage wns then adopted by the US, French, Dutch and Suies armies, Exoorince hhas shown that the possiilly of etaction wth this new type of 801 ccamoutlage, compared with the previous olve-green, is reduced by more than hall. Of he vehicles ofthe ‘th batch that were designates “Ag thee were altogether 300, manufactured and fited with the now SEM 60/80 radio, as well ss the Shorter antenna,eopard 2A4 bate tank (sth batch), Panzerbatailion 293 of Panzormgade 29. is seen near ‘Ansbach during the Reforger maneuver ‘Certain Challenge" in 1988, The vehicle bears the Refciger maneuver rsignia of the “Blue Fores" on the turret, Panzareatsllon 293 received the first Leopard 2 bate tanks. in Soptomber 1986. At this time Panzerbatallon 283 vias organized azcconting to Army Structure 4, with 3 headquarters company and threo batle companios. n_ 1983 Panzerbatallion 263 took par in the CAT oompattion Using tho Leopard 1A4 atthe time, anc ‘was adudged the best tank unit inthe compotion. (W. Langecht) The 2nd Company of Panzorbataiten 244 camouflaged thei Leopard 2 litle unusually during the "Keckers Spatr" maneuver In September 1987 near Ingolstadt in Souther Germany. The black spats a) ine twee-sslor camoullage wore patially painted over wth aight mud color and camoutlaged with pieces of clones. This camouflage simlar to the old US-MERDEG camouflage ofthe 1980s. Just as on the lanks fom the 2nd batch, the towing cable atthe eat of the Leopard 2 was fled crosswise, (W, Langwuch uring the maneuvers io Germany the armored unis Continuously. practioad rapic advances, as counterattacks, with the support of folding prage sysiems. Here we see Leopard 2A4 bata tank Panzerauthgeungeoetalon 12 crossing a German version of the Amescanscesigned Ribbon Bridge of 12.Panzercivicion ‘eat Farr-on the Main river The Ribbon Bridge can. suppom armored vebicies weighing up to 80 tonnes and can be used) fs either a fery of a Mixed bide. (H. Hept)of Panzorautkiérungsbatailon 11 ade 9, painter atthe frent of Leopard Leopard 2A4 of Panzerauklérungst German A ul teh hing a Dutch Leopa heavy reconnalssancs to 2, utkerungFring in the fag! The electronics in the Leopard 2 enacles the battle tanto fire is 120mm L’4 smoothibare gun while ata standstl, whan moving, or hen visibly is poor The stronger attr (no welded munitions hateh) attached! the trot of tis {Leopard 244 (6 batch) of Panzerbatallon Sods leery visibie inthis photo, The crew of Std Company of Panzeraatlon 84 has decarated the turret of thelr Leopard 28s with interesting camoutlage. The unit Is playing the part ofthe aggressor force uring tha “Light Viper 94° maneuvers. Comba raining in the German Army has achieves @ new high standare with the “Laser Maneuvers" the Leopard 2 lark batlalons at the US. 7m Amys CMTC Hoaniels (Combat Maneuver Tesining Center). The solders leam more. and Jaa faster ‘th the Amarcan SAWE-REMILES I (Mitipie Integrated Laser Engagement System) traning system than wih the Usual maneuvers. The use of dual Simulators foreae thom to. adopt = ‘ombat ype of attudo. Hero a Leopard 284 (@th batch) cf Panzerbatailon 304 ‘0 “Gold Farca" (dicated by the 160 fross) 18 seen in a nartinly covered pesition during the Spring 1994 Maneuvers al the CMTC, The ‘camouflage consisting of inian materia) fon the tront part of tha vehicle Is typical for PzBIl $04, The crew has also spread two umbrellas over the suet hhaten 10. protect them against the ‘weather,‘All yeicles ate ites wih cetactor belts during the maneuvers ab the CMTC Honanfsls, and the MILES sensors may not be covered or sole. ‘The ‘Gold Force is signified by red crosses. This photo shove a Leopard 24 (th batch that fomures Ighnwelgnt track aprons and he typical abe ‘camouflage of Panzerbatalon 308, 10 Panzeraision. In order to avoid damage to the chassis of tne Leopard, the sido aprons, were removed «tring the exercises at CMIC Honerfals. The suspension of the chassie othe whos is shown to advantage hse. Tis Leopard 244 of Panzerbatailon S04 nas turned is main fun to 8 ocock’ alter boing taken out Of acon. The SAWE-AFINILES training sistem alternates benwaen fourlypes cl outot-comibat slats: tla, Cassis, weapons systems, and ado. ‘There was no ditference beiween the type Aé Leopards of batches 6 and 7, ahogether 83 vehicles were manufactured by Krauss-Matfl in the in batch, and 67 Leopard 2 bate fanks by MAK. The 7in batch was composed of 55 vehicles made by Krauss-tael and 45 made by MAK: ‘The photo shows a Leonard 24 (7th batch) of Panzerpatalion 304 at CMTC Hohenfels in Api 1994,‘Tho Sth and last atch of Leopard 25 was manulactured vetwoon January 1991 and March 1882. Krauss-Matte built 41 and MAK bull 34 Leopard 244 ofthe final batch, ‘The vehicles of the oth psten can be recognized externally by the Improved heavy Wack ‘aprons, their continuous sie! fide aprons, both of wich are of D technology’ (3 protection versions), andthe field ‘justing minor on the moutno the 120mm gun. Te improve the ‘rass-couniry capablites of the Leopard, the crew has foxchanged part cf the rubber padding for Ice Scrapers tha fare afixed to the front of the vehicle, To Leopard 2a4s of the ath falch were taken out of he series as ‘al samples for the Leopard 20S Increased tightng value program, The photo shows a Lecpars 2A8 lath batch of [Gebiraspanzerbstalln 8 that bears ‘he yellow manewer metengs ot ‘Blue Force" on ils tare. Note the ight smoke dischargers on tha Side ofthe turet A Leopard 214 piatoon of Panzerpatsifon 304 attacks during an exercise in Jaruary 4996 at the CMTC Hohenfels ‘Tho white vertesl stipes of the "Zabra” winter camoutlage ‘obscures the contours of the vehicle at a distance of 2.500 meters (2,732.5 yards). The SAWE-RFIMILES. II taining equipment, whose yellow combat vehlelo. "kl" indicator recognition lights link cantnually after a “nit. is Clearly visible on the wre of the Leopard. Inthe background 8 Geparc snt-airorat tank survey the vast sky hoping to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Emblem of Gobiegepanzerbataion 2,The last Leopard 2Ade of the Bi batch to be handed over to the Geman Amy were delivered on March 18, 1992 (in 2 festive manne to stgspanzernatalon 8 of Panzefbigade 12. At the bme the German Amy had more than 2,125 Leopard 2 balle tanks. This Leopard 2A (th batch) GI Getirgspanzersetation & wears mud spoties camoutlage, The tank's commander is named Spannbavee Side view of a Leopard 2A4 (ath bateh) of GebP28M wearing the red maneuver markings f the “Gold Fores" tunis 26 well as yelow angle tactical markings of the company. The rear ae (white bal) shows the tank ‘commander the cation of the end of the tank rea, regardless of the turer's poston, The "Gold Fores" units ave the lead training troops in the. army maneuvers at CMTC Hohentels. The maneuvers aways begin with platoon ‘anc company tating belore all alamants of the combat unt combine to {tack the "enemy". In this photo tne crew members of a Leopard 2A (ath batch) platoon prepare themselves for actor in the vehicle poor near Albarisholen a the CRIT Honentels A Leopard 2A4 (Bin batch) of Gebirgepanzerbatallon § of “Blue Fores’ changes position during the "Schweppermann MILES’ maneuver in Deoamber 1989 at CMTC Hohentels. The now staol side aprons are completely nasambled on the venice, Note that @ portion of the rubber padsing on the tank sacks that were fixed to te font of the vehicle ware ‘exchanged for le scrapers.Winter exarise in Dacember 1905 al CMITC Hohenfes. The S-1on MAN 4510 tanker can pump upto 1,200 ilers (317 gallons) of diesel fel ito the fueltankof the Leopard 2, Fuel usage while traveling across the countryside averages about 600 liters per 100 km (132 gallonsi62 mies), ‘An overhead photo of a Leopard 2A4 of P2Bt 214 offers a good view ‘of may deals of the new fois adjusting system that has been fied on the rout ofthe gun on all Loopard 2 battlo tanks In the Garman Army. Also sib ate dotais of tne MILES I raining systom "Kill Light” and tne opened ENIES 15. Note tht ice scrapers have been assembled onthe tank racks andthe replacement track pats are missing, The contours of the Leopard 2 are Indsinguishable Mrevgh is spotted Winer camautage al 2 clan stance, as is Clearly seen in this photo of two. Leopar 2d battle tanks of Parzeataiton 214 at CITC Hoherteis_in December 1995. The lgher Front ack apron serves to enable the ‘jen to enter and exit mote casi‘The CMTC 1.85 maneuver tock place under extreme weather and terran candions atthe exoroise area at Hohenfels. First of al, “Gonotal Winger” governed things wth ley cold winds and lot of sow, then the weather conditions changes and itbegan to ran. The resulting mud demandes the utmast from bath man and machine, proving exactly the right test conaitions for he Leopard 2s of Panzarbataiion 10s, The “Bavarian Tiger” insignia of 1st Pistoon, ath Company, Panzorbatalion 104, Another vant of he winter paint scheme is shown inthis photo ofa Leopard 2A4 (th balch) of sin Company, GeoP2Bli 8 during winter maneuvers in January 1908 at CMTC Hohenfels, Here the black spots of Pe three-color eamoutiage are pated aver with white Aqui chalk If signals from the laser inthe MILES Il taining systar ni the target ths receiver tecords @ hit. Each ype of laser has its own Code thal shows tne receiver whother the ht etally ripples or just damagos tho tank. han armored fighting vohise fights a bale tank, no “kl” 1S possible, A itis rhecessary for stopping a bate tank withthe anf-tank gun. Some oats 1 bbe seen on the ture! of tne Leqnad 2 ara the Zeiss PERL 17 ful-view teleseapie sights ofthe commander In tont isthe opened EMES 15 range Finder and maln targeting systam of the gunner, mtn laser range finder, passive lowlightlevel equipment, and thermal imaging device‘The 2nd platoon of Sth Company, Panzerpatalion 104 has given the name "Thor to their Leopard 2. Note the radio antenna of the SEM 8.90 ‘adio system a9 well as part af the MILES Il equipment. Lecpard 2s rom the Stn baton on were fied witha cigtal eomautar for eonneating the shooting land duoling simulatoc. They were also equipped with thelr own fre upression stem inthe turret Emblem of Panzerbatailon 104 The Leopard 2Aé tanks of the 6th baten, which were produced between 128 and 1989, featured Improved amor plating on the turret and the font of tho chassis. Thanks to the now heavy track apron on the front of the thassis inedtced in this batch, repairs 1 tho Jead wheel can be periormed more easly. This "Gokd Force" Leopard 20 of Panzerlentbatallon 394 wears the yellow "Wollsangel” (tactical insignia of Germany's 1a Panzordvsion during Word War on the tut, as well as the normal red A special winter camoutlage was used by Panzorbatalion 142 of Panzerbrigade 14 wing the ‘Winterhauch 93° averciso at the Baumholder ttoap training grounds, Inslead of decorating thee vehicles wih white chalk, tne crews covered tho large areas’ on their tanks with white sheets that could be removed it required, depending on the weatherThe Lia 120mm smoathbore gun ofthe Lecpara2 basically operates with two tyaes of ammuntion, By intoaucing into the. American munitions computer, pes of to be adjusted for these new numbers. This was accomplished vith the instalation of 2 al computor baginning with the Sty ch Belore ovary rotation, the bat brigades are diged Inia two co tunis (BluafGelé Foree), Each brigade has @ reinforced battalion battle tank point is located. Following feach combat phase, ee Action Review meetings (AAR for both the “Bive Force Frca" at. platoon, comp Datialon lavels, Tis photo JABAL of the Pz) 104 combet unt In Deceroor 1995. InAemy Structure 5 of the ‘amy, the four combat companics of the tank battalion each have tanks in four platoons po the company bate tank in fe 508 aplatoon| n) belonging to P2Bl 104 in December 1985, Novice thatthe front vehicle bears the name of tha tank commander on the the turalDunng the CMTC Hohoniels rotation there. is always up (ObservertContaten) ‘uth the leading tank of the company. The OC lunar) can stop she vith his "Good Gi ber pistol The orders given io PaLBU 93 are princioaly to carry out walfing rcises for ofigers, NCOs and candidates. They are also fo test and ‘develop new daveas ane training techniques, to conduct traning exeTCises In font of righ-anking local ar foreign visors, and to imalomeant Wang in tho datense ofthe courty, Aseembly area of platoon of Leopard 244 {sth batch) of PuLBIl 03 near Kitenses, CMTC Hohertwa, PrLBU 89, which was formed In 7986, was the US M47 bate ta time. Later was battalon in the Gorman Army to be equipped ‘with the Leopard 2 This Leopard 284 of PzLStl €3 belongs to Panzerlotrtiigade 9 stationed in Munster in narthem Germany. It is subordinate “7.Panzordhvision, PZLBII 98 is allocated to the main cetense fe Garman army, 21Hell The commander of this eunken Leopad 286 ‘of PZB! 214 lal to notice @ fazen water holo during fan ataci at CMTC Honenfls in December 1995, it fuserstucture of the batle tank is held oy ground suction, only a recovery vehicle can help. This photo of the sunkon separ 24 of P2Bt 214 vides @ 9God look at some of the details of the MUTE! roof filed wth the MILES II taring system, Tho baile vehicles that are ited with the MILES. traning sysiem also have a ioual Postion System (GPS) ransmnitr that makes ehicle moving in the ining area Vise on ‘computer screen in the contol room, This tos wich vehicles have shot al which target, “Road markings" of brigade 21 and ehtorigade 9 with tactical insignia ‘he Garman Ary in Ap +986 near Hohentas, “This Leogard 2&4 ol P2Bti 214 of Panzetbngade 21, 7Panzardhision ie par of the German Commander embien ‘ammy/s heauy crisis reaction force. The patialon’s insignla, the "Lppisehe Reso’, s dearly vis'le cade 2 ton the tutet near the EMES 15. In 1997 PeBt) 214 wae roaqupced wit the Leopard 245 KIWS ofthe German heavy erste i reaction tore.PB 3 cna bickutie bacground son har ono ight cigs dt al. In 1006, PBI 30 om fa rt Ut be equpped wi he Leopard 2A, futitad for combat 54 Emblem of, Panzerbatalfon 154, Panzerbrigade 34,5 (GE) Panzerdivision equipoee ‘th Leopard 244, ‘The waste of material at CMTC Hohentels is quite considerable during the feereses, Ths Leopard 284 of Papi 154, Panzetbrigade 34 had a whole leading wee orn nay by arockLeonard 2A3, hatch 4, Panzertatalion 123, Panzerbrigade 12, “Royal Sword 90” maneuver, Sulzbach-Rosenberg, October 1990 ‘The tactical number on tne tunet identifies this Leopard 2A3 as the Sic vehicle af 2nd Platoon, 2nd Company. The new Leopard 2AS battalions ofthe German Amy have dlscarce the turret qumbers, The battaion insignia of Panzorbatlion 125 the yellow “Knights hela, s parted on the let font side ‘of the turret. As rom batch 4 onward, all Leopard 2 bate tanks wera delved from the factory withthe new three-color camoulage, The orange ight on the tute otis swtched on during conveys on public roads. Leonard 2n4, hatch 7, Panzortatallon 214, 1 Panzerdvision, CAT Hohenfels, December 1995 The crew a this Ceopard 2A4 has the bic patches othe three-color camouflage painted ovar with whit chalk during the winter maneuver in Dacember 1995 at CHTC Hohenfels. The yellow "wol's angel” above the smoke dischargers nies this vehicle as gat f the “Blue Foros" and was the tactical insignia of tne 19 Panzerdvision during the Russian campaign in WII. The side skits are removed aunng manouvers in Hobienvalso prevent unnecossary damages to the chassis. The importarca ofthe blue number “84° on tha turret front isnot Known, The large box on the turret roo! In whieh the personal beloninge ofthe cow are Stored is unusualLeopard 244, 41 HL Tankbatafjon, 81 (NU) Lichte Brigade, light Viner 93° maneuver, Weser-Emsland, june 1983 ‘Only the 41 (NL) Tankbstalion carnes the “Black lon with sword’ emblem on the ture. The white "GE" on black background indicates Dutch unit staoned in Germany. The MILES training systom is fx9d tothe green velo band onthe turet during traning. The tent tarpaulin serves to camoutiace the chass's. Other outer alterations are the FNMIAG machine gun the long radio antenna, and ony six smoke dischargers on each side ofthe turet. All Dutch Logpard 2s, Including tha Mt version, were delvered from tne factory in alive green col. Leonard 285 KWS Hi, Panzerhatalion 33, 7.Panzerdivsion, CMTC Hohenfels, April 997 This vehicle belongs to the 2nd Company of Panzerbatailon 93 and is sean filed with the SAWE-RFIMILES Il Training System during the "CMTC Folaton” in Apri 1997 at tre US 7th Army Raining center in Hohenfels. Tho ede skis andthe exira tural baskets were remioved before the actual exorcise. (nthe rear ofthe ture is the simplified shape ofthe banalon insignia of Panzerbatallon 33, a yellow ‘palm tee", whose origins dates back fo Romral’s [Aitka Korps. The former ammunition hatch on the turret below the national crass has heen deleted ina previous effeiency upgracing measur.Because othe poftical stuation in the word ater the fall of the Basin wal, GAT was arranged for the CENTAG army group forthe last time in 1984 the Amertcan cop tlning area al Grafenwéhr. Here & Leopard 244 of P2Btl 189 of the CENTAG team dives back to is ronal pasiton folowing th “vale run’, P2Btl 153, whlen Is one othe oldest tank Datialons in tho Gorman Army, was refited with tne Leopard battle tank i 1985. The rame on the turat Is fan aliysion to the wellknown mation picture from tho early 90s. The Canadian army Tropiiy (CAT) was a ‘ NATO. tank shooting competion waged Between the teams of tne army groups NORTAG. and CENTAG. This ppholo shows a Dutch Leopard 2/4 platoon of 43_(NL)_ Tankbataljon (NORTHAG) during: the “battle run" on range 301, at the Grafonwohe Training Area duting CAT St. In each “bata run? the unt tes at fixed and movable. targeis both from fixed postions and ele underway. There are 32 targots and machin: un squads ready for Use by eaen unt during the CAT, Standing tanks can fie a fags al a range of 2,000 meters (2,186 yaros) and moving battle vehicles can shoot from up to 1,200. meters (1.412 yards} avay, Note the Dutch national flag on tha raar of the voile In tha photo, a8 well asthe latering “CAT 1981" on tho right side of the 1urcet ofthe Leopard 244 of 43 (NL) Tankostalo,The image ofa tiger's head was often used In conection with the CAT competion and ten decorated the tanka of the parioipating teams, as is the c2se vitn tia Leopard 2A6 of Bi 6 of the NOATAG tzam, Panzerbatailon 14 was formed in 1959, In 1981 itbecame one Of te fst units io receive the Leopara 2 baille fark. During CAT 15 the Panzeroatallon 84 won fist prize while equipped with he Leopard 1 batts tank uring GAT 89 the Leopard 2 platoon of 2811203 won socond place with 17,735 ports. The first place awards in CAT 88 were all won by Leopard 2 teams, whish ilusiates once again the impressive outpat of that weapors System, Note the Garman rational fag on the 120mm gun barrel of the Leopard 2 of PeBtl 203. The CAT 9 competition tumed out to be a very chose race right up t@ the end, The day before F ended, tat platoon of 4th Company. PzBti 203, seen in ths photo, was a favorte, Homaver, the German team sas beaten by the Duton Leopard 28 of 41 (NL) Tarkbataon, which shat very wal“The aide sogmants ofthe xtra armor ean be folded avis. On the lf side of the turet there is an intemal housing for stoning the cleaning equipment forthe gun ‘view ofthe let se of @ Leopard 245 KWS Il shows the driving lights and ho, towing hooks, snow grousers, and replacement track pats on the front of he tank’ nul. Behind thom. on the turret uming ring, ae tne empty holders for the twelve camouflage net poles. During maneuvers with the MILES Il aning system, the gun ilusaton device (Holman Device) is alisched tothe lt sca, “ eh i lp Mew ot he tehtoced roteflke relat clot: IO a. armer af the turret font, the EMES 15 main target telescopioskgnts help to ‘The attaohmant of extra amar tothe frat ofthe ture also provides the ‘observe, measure range, and direc the fire ofthe guns on boara. thermal tive wth Deter protection asains fre from above. the driver's halen aging davies i¢ buit lo the EMES 15. Ta tho ie of this @ the FERO completely cedesigned to slow it #0 be moved horzontaly in one motion lnilary eleecopic sights of the gunner, which ean take over for the main TWo angled mirors ae ied the hatch, anc a hr is install atthe lek ‘gun and the Blenden machine gun f tha fre contol systam breaks down, fort ofthe tank’ superstructure‘Atop view ofthe lute of a Leopard 25 KWS II sho qunnar's hatch withthe mounting forthe antkaireralt machin inners hatch and the commander’ haten i b The installation of a reve vehicle and a TV screen in the tthe Leopart! 288 KWS I, The ‘above the radiator exhaust grating oF Under combat conditions (ota a 2rd Company and the yell Afrean palm to the night and left of the turret is the bataion insignia of Peat 93.ak” platoon Company, painted at Contain ran protection, the crews personal equipment, cable drums, vehicle Covers and walor canisters, The shark onthe turret basket ofthis Leopare le be uni insignia of Panzerbatalion 2 ‘This side view allow the strength of the new adkstional armor 0 86 ‘seen, Sharp atlachment modules tezch almost to the bore evacuator ef the 20mm gun. Because ofits shape, the Leopard 2A5 KWS Ili also known “ha shrew1 ofthe suporstuctive and turatnousing ofthe Leopard tho the side armer: NotoThe yellow “Afrika Korps" palm, omblom of Panzerpatallon 33, Panzorbnigado 21, 7 (GE) Panzordivision ‘equipped with Leopard 288 KWS I iB Be ae Leopard 248 KWS Il of 2nd Company. PZB 33 in the as 1997. The number insignia, which has its origins sth Remymels Arka Korps, Battalion crest of Panae 33 shows a yelow Alican palm tree against a blackwnite Prussian background color. Ths crest is applied to all Leopard 245 KWIS I Panzerbatal Unlucky tank! During the spring maneuver of 19 at CMTC Hohenfels, obviously through a tivor's error, 2 Leopard 2A5 KWS Il of Panzerbatalion 33 sipped ‘own’ an_ embankment and parially Buried iisett Because of tho conditon ofthe sol the tank couldnt ‘toe isa. A Borgopanzer 8 Bifel armored recovery vehicle eventually fead tne Leopard from Is unlucky it OMTC Hohenfels, Apri ‘onthe right leading rack cover gves the ilar kad cass in matic tons. Next tothe the squadron fallen insignis ioeafec onthe let eacing tack cover The whole of 2nd Company, Panzerbataion 33, whlen ‘elds tireen Leopars 2A5 KWS Il tanks, prepares fr exercises ona vllage street in Enselvang in Apr 1997 al CMTC Hohenfels, Tha exeresa bogins ‘uth dare being given tothe traning bation, which then take up ther ital‘The dual combat field simulation Using the MILES Il training systam is ihe mast modem methoa of combat raining avaliable today, The MILES raining system has @ passlve aspect that employs sensors fo show the nits thal ave taken and an active aide that asee iaara to Inceato the effec ofthe weapons. Since 1093 the German Aimy has used this qualified traning methoo Inoreasingly for its heavy crisis reaction forces, ‘Soon here ina parade during the ring exercise in Apri 1997 at CMTC Hohenfels 1s 2nd Company, Panzertatallon 33 Marder 143 APC of Penzetgrcnadlerbatallan 212, The bate exercises 0! ‘he Leopara2 tank nataions al the CNITC are divided ino individual taining Dhagos thal combined ta make a complete tacial situation, hier is supaorted by “The Garman Army will ref 225 of thoit Leopara 25 with tne AS WS Il variant This wil mean that the. tank battalions of the heavy crisis reaction forces fang the Eurccorps wil be fited out Jest. Saan Leopard 205 KWS I of PrBll 289 at Borger: Honne in November 4997.Botora the Leopard 285 WS II nas iniroduced to the Gorman tank troops there were long years 1 work esti individual measures irereasing the combat stieieney in 099 tal, This Leopare 2A5 KWWS We that” belongs to Panzeretaion 33s seen herein Noverber [nae 1997 al Borgor-Home. improved, as well as the threat from above from cornbatHelcopters and grounc-assauh at usa tha WLAN guided anti-tank weapon used by German tank gtenadias fant) is incompatible wis the MILES Il taining system, tha Garman Army usos the American Dragon in exercises at Honentals. During trainin Leopard 2 crow members familiarize thamsalves. with. the of various pes of ‘ammunition by. firing the gun wih taining munitions. The ulate foal ot tne traning ie tHe mastory of combat fing win the scope othe Un.‘Once shay fave been trained to 1 weapon hydraulics were 5 by a filly. elecsonic 5 hydraulic ol is Tanks from 2n6 Company, P28 3 ate loaced onto German Railways 1a) cars. at the raiway station of Parsbsrg after completing maneuvers of 1997 Hohenfels. (F. HochstatterThe commander of Panzeroatailon 33. loads a counterattack with his Leopard BAS AWS Il at tha tnt tne near Kittenses, CMTC Hohenfels, in January 1993 uring the mansuvor "Harta Faust 98" The commander's tank ja distinguished by the rediblack battalion flag (Gatallonsstandarde) wth the white numeral "33° on tha tight Side of the turret, The. MLC: ‘marking and the battalion crest are visible on the right chain ‘uard, The red maneuver cross ig the symbol of the “Gold Force” (Ubungsttuppe Gold) rmanewer oops, Leopard 2A5 KWS Il of Src Company, Panzerbatailon 29 othe “Gold Force’ during batla naar Kitensee, CNITC Hohenfels in January 1998. The brandnew Leopard 285 KWS Il are covered vith an icy muc eae: he lateral turret storage bins are missing. The “Yelow Palm Troe" atthe turet rears the symbo) ofthe Gefecrverband 23 (Task Force $8) during ine maneuver “Harte Faust 9°, the markings °C IF are the beat hea” aro ‘actin! plaoon smatkirgs IKrisneaktionskatte) of the Bundeswehr to be iswued their fs new Leopard 248 KWS Il n mid-1997. The pholearaph shows a rear view of a ‘tank in rd Company, P2B1 399 employed al fhe forward! defense lines. The vertical “Yellow Arran” at tne turet storage bin and sis identifies the “Blue Force’, here the “Gelechisverband 385° duang the “Hare Faust 98° maneuver ai CMTC Honerials In January 1998, The two wheel chocks fastened at the turet rear are used for securing the tank during railroad liansoort. The tark crew secures the vehicle with the barbed wie In nightie ‘The crew of 3rd Company, P28! 33s preparing ts Leopard 285 KWNS I for ralraad transport after winter maneuvers in Hchentels at the Parsberg railway station on a Wrosly afternoon in February 1998. The buck ‘camoutlage spate are painted over wlth whitewash, The winter camouflage atthe tan hull is covered with mud. The metal aprons were mounted only shorty betore the oad transport trom Honenfaiso Parsberg loading sationThis ie behind the German ag is oady to transport Leopard 245 KS. Not Panzerbatalion 214, Panzerbigade 21, 7Panzerdiigion to thar Rome base” in Augustdod, The tanks feature the “Gold Farce maneuver marking; fering versions o the winter camouflage were applied to the new Leopard 2AS KWS Il for the first time during the maneuver in CMTC Honent's A someuinat unususl gorta of a Leopard 285 KWS I ati tank. Panzerhauptmann Alme of td Company, P26 308, SPanzecdivision is photographed wth a visitng officer trom Mal, Alnca uniformed 2s. Getman Army offer during the maneuver CMTC 4.98 in Hohenfels, Apt 1908. The German Anny is faquentiy host to a numberof oreign mity personne! ftom nor-NATO coumiies wo ate familiarized with tactics and Sauipment of the German tank tcops, ‘Maneuvers on dificult terran at the CMTC Hohen‘ets deliver a severe strain on tanks and material. This Leopard 2A5 KWS Il of PzBil 33 is broken down and falsed the yellow lag, Fefowing napecton of the damage, the crew ofthe Bergepanzer 3 Blfel ARV summoned tothe scene Hecides fo tow the disabled dank away. 38Bergepanzer 3 Buttel ARV \yas dovoloped to operate in with the fast Leopard 2 aatlle tank. While the Bergopanzer has ‘ited tho heavy ‘engine cover plate, the crew of the Leopard 2A5 KWS I of P2Bll 214, Panzerbrigade 21 removes the engine ‘connections. The lateral steel turret feinlorcement is disengaged, omoving the entra Leopard 2 enaine Dock is accomplished in very. short time. ee Be 28 ‘closer look at the damage t the brokon-down Leopard 245 KWS Il ‘1 one Company Feat 52, ung a simulated aac, the commander ofthe lank failed € see a bump on the groune, the speeding tank vas thrown sevaral melats ino the ai, and tor of the front er on hard landing, This val requte several hours of hard work ‘or the repale. The villa viangle (NATO-cross) between the tactieal sigs facitates onentaton tothe onward vehicte during rightime operations. et fll view ofthe engine compartment of a Leogare 248 KWS i sof he MTUMB 873 ka-501 engine. Note be hwo large round ai fiters of the 12-cyinder 4746 Iter turbo-chargoa clase engine, a During le fre exezcse of Sth Company, PzBIl 988 on the Live Fie FRange 6 (SehieSbahn 6) in May 1998 In Bergen-Hohno, the craw of a Leopard 245 KWS | is loading 120mm armorpiercing ammunition. & Special version of this KE munitions was successilly employed in 1991 dunng the Gull War in American MAT Abrams larks and wae oubbed ‘Siver Bulle?Beginning in the year 2000 the combat stago (KWS |) upgrade isto bo caried aul on the Leopard 285 KS Il The KWS siage Inoludes ancther inorease inthe firepower tough a longer gun bare called he 120 ISS. (8, irc) The firepower of the 120mm gun can be eonsideraby Inereased by longihening the barr from 44 calber length to 55 caliber length ana ustig the mote powerful KE ammuniten {LKE I) The armor-plereing capacty wil then be almast doubled compared to the capacty at the beginning of the 30s. The new LKE Il ammunition fer the Leopard 2As ig to be introcucod withthe KWWS | But thanks to the d,000-meter(4,372-yard) maximum range ofthe old fre contol computer, the gun's range vill not be increased. (A Kino) Euro-Leonard 2 The Swiss Army has Bough a total of 380 Leopard 87 tanks that feature the AA outfil. The Leopard 87 tank is equipped with a US vehicle radio out bull in Switzerland under license, as wal as the Swiss MG 67, I alsa festures addtional attachmorks for en more snow grouse. (A. Kirchhof)Another characierstlc that dstinguishes the Swiss Leopard 87 tank rom the German version i the removable exhaust silencer (or reducing ois) that is attached to tne rear of the vehicle an all Suiss Army Leopard tanks, Immediately infront of tha smoke dlacharger system on bath sides of the tue are to holders for cooling hot machine gun bares. An external intercom is attached tothe rear ofthe turret. (& Kechhof) ‘together there wore six Dulch Leopard 2Aés ard a "Bergiastanks {600 KN Butt!” armored recavery vehicie slatone atthe forward base of Apa tgam of the Dutch IFOR cont wh eovers aver them, though repair and maintenance work was carred out in tenis In 1996 the Duteh ‘Army received the fst of & total of 445. Leopard 2 batle tanks. Tho Leopard 2s of the Duteh Army tne same ae balahes 2 and 3 of the Garman Army, Exiamally the Dutch Leopard” 2 can be recognized by te ax smoke dischargers on each side. This photo shows @ Butoh Leopard 2a of 104.verkenningsebatalion (Tank Reconnaissance Batalion) sung the net exorcise “Light Viper 83 The lent covers on the side aprons servo. 10 ‘eamouilage the chass 'A Dutch Leopard 2A4 of 42 (NL) Tankbataljon inthe forward base of ‘Aloha tear in Naw Travnik, Bosniaterzsgovina in September 1996. The IFOR insignia was applied in while lettering below the name ofthe tank (Pacrid) on noth sigas of the Ture. The Dutch IFOR taops used Leopard 2 bait tank for securing thew checkpoints.‘The extemal ateations an the Dutch Leopard 2, compared to the German type, le principally in the tunet area: the turot land anl-aizraft FN MG, the racio installation ans the enhanced ‘divers optical equipment are of Duieh production, a5 are the Sx smoke dkzonargers an each side of the wire, Th lon with Sword, the emblem of the Durch forces, was aniy worn by INL) Tankbatalion. This photograph shows a Dulan caopard 2Aé of 41 (NL) Tankbalajon in the "Light Viper” manauver near Hoya The Dutch forces place great value in having Leopard’ 23 that are similar to the German ones. The Talntenance ofthe Leopard 2 weapons system is less expensive this way, making them more economical forthe future. Seen here is = photo of a Dutch Leopard 2A4 of 101 (NL) Tarwbatalion fané a Gorman teopard 244 of Panzerballon 24 ourng the exercise ‘Acive Sword 87" noar SaimeNWeser Both units are subordinate tothe new GermanDutch Compe In 1964, 41 (NL) Tankoatayjon was fequiopod with the Leopard 2, but in 1994 tho battalion was dissolved Because ofthe reduction i the number of forces in the Dutch Army, 118 Leopard 2M@s wore sold to Austia This Leopard 284 of 1 (NL) ‘Tankbataljon was phetogeaphec during the “Light Vipor’ manquver near Hoya.“This is @ NL Leopard 24 of 41 (NL) Tankbatalion seen during tne Light Viper" maneuver ofthe restructured 41 (NL) Lichte Brigade ‘iter the 1st NL Coins was slssolved, the remaining Dutch units were integrated into the newly formed German teh Cores Emblem of 41 (NL) Lichte Brigade ‘during exercise "Light Vor 83° ‘During the Dutch Army's “Rhino Ora\isko 97° maneuver in Poland 30 Leopard 244 batt tanks of 11 (NL) Tankbatallon were transported by Shp 0 Stettn in Poland, ane thn by ral the training ground, Note the American MILES training equtment on the ture! of the Duteh Leopard 24, as well as te olve-green camouflage paint scheme. Tho tactical Insigra was eovered over. Cola War scenario: M28 Hind attack holcopters engage in combat wth a Dutch Leopard 24 of the 11 (NL} Tankbatalon. Yostoday's enemy is now 2 weleomed partispant in the "Rhino Drawsxe 97 maneuvers, This impressive photo was taken curing the fist maneuver withthe Dutch Army on the Polsh troop training ground at Drawsky Pomimers’ Apt 1997.DDuteh Leopara 2A¢ of 11 (NL) Tankbatalion ata retueing station on the Polish training Ground al Drawsko Pommerck i Adri 1997. Every Dutch tank squadron has fourteen tanks: the eammander and his éapuly each have a tank at thir aispoeal, and thres platoons each composed of four tanks. Dutch Leopard 285 KWS Il of A ‘Company, 42 (NL) Tankbatajon during the frst Active Sword’ manawa of he new GermaryDutch Camps on the trop teaming ground at Beiger-Hohne in Catone 1997, The Dutch version of the Leopard 285 KWS II dirs externally from the German version by having six joke sieehargare on each sie cf the turel, as wall as by having a thicker and longor antenna (not assembled on this vehicle), This vehole of ACompany bears the word “Assassin? on the side othe ture. Ih May 1696 the frst Leopard 285 KWS Is were handed over to the Dutch Aimy. Other conspicuous exterral difrences from the German version aretha larger holders forthe wedgas onthe rear ofthe turret, 2s well 2s ihe lighor rear track apron. The Dutch version nas a 7.62mm MG made by the Balgian firm FN as is antareraft machine gun. A French iyoe FM £9000 vehicle radio is installed inthe inside oi the Leopard 2AS KWS I The improved, powerful KE mmuntion DM-23 ean also be ‘ed from the La 120m, smootnbo%e gun, the standard gun of the Leopard 2. At the ond of 1999 the eyal Dutch Army plans to equip 11 (NU) Tankbatalion with a moditied version ofthis tank. the Leopard 245 KWS II. In this photo a Leopard 244 NL of 11 (NL) Tankbatajon participates in the “Rhino Drawsko" maneuver in April 1997, Observe the Dutch vehicle number and the weight class (MLC) on te font of tne venice,‘A Leopard 245 KWS Il of 42 (NL) Tankbatalion in high speed. during maneuvers in April 1998 near Zootkemp in the Netherlands, The Royal Dutch Army ated the Gorman likcolor camouflage of bionze-rean [RAL 6031), leather-brown (RAL 027) and tarblack (AL 9021) for is now Leopard 2A5 KW I. The KIL marking 7 onthe right side ofthe tank hulls In gray, numerals are in wha, This phoioareph ofa brand-new Leopard 24S KWS Il fom B Eskadon (Sauacron) of 42 (NL) Tankbatajon taken from above shows a number of specie Dutch motifcations as compared to tho Gorman version: such a5, longer, thieker antenna ads, large number of camaullage net rods and in tarpaulins for camouflaging tho vehicle, The wile numeral "22" on the left mud guare infeates verile 2 of 2nd patoan, Massive Stee. Another Leopard 285 KWS II from 8 Eskackon (Squadron) of 42 (vL] Tarkoataljon wit tut facing near, Note the ger Version of mounts forthe wheel chocks at the ius rear. The rear storage bin holds tho camouflage nets, The aluminum bax is lacquered in orginal anioullage color an is ound in icartical positon atthe turet root of ‘ach venile inthis unt. The Buch natenal emblems and plaloon number are affixed tothe fl rant mud quad, the ight font mos-quarfestures the‘The Swedish tank brigades are to recalvo a toal of 210 vehicis inthe Siidsvagn 122 version. The turet ‘oof onthe Sirdsvagn 122 has been srenathnened ith additonal protection. The tank is also equipped with a ‘command. and control system with the following Properties: tiansier of orders and informatizn, Assessment of the situation, local mapping, ofentation in the countryside, target isentieabion, as well as RAMAN jasers, whieh are sata for Ihe eyes, (A ircaror) Leopard Armored Recovery Vehicle Frem the introduction of the Lcpara 2 unt 199% the Bergopanzor 2, bulton tne nasi ofthe Leopard 1, was the standary | recovery vehicle of tne German tank taps and the Leopard 2 tank battalions. The Bergepanzer 2 Stancers ARV (aimores Recovery Vehicle) has a combat weight of only 40.8 fonnes, while the voight of tha Leopara 2 i655 tonnes. In dificult terain and for longer stieet marches, there are usualy two Bargopanzx 2 Slardarc AVS used They may be seen in this photo of PZBU 363, al the “Fraenkishor Schig army exercises in 1986, “The Swedish version ofthe Leopard 24S, which is amet 'Stridsvagn 122", citers greatly from tno German(Dutch versions cf the Mannheimer coniguration. features significant larger xtra amor fon the turet roof and the font hull atea, 43 wall a6 halogen lamps, The Stidsvagr 122 weighs 62 ionnes Tho German Bundeswehi orginally planned to bay the Leopard 285 in the Stridsvagn 122 version, but had fo abandon ths plan due to @ lack of funds. (A. Kirchiot)ih& “Obelix” is a comic. charact representing stong ane powerful, This figure is painted on the ciane of a Bergapanzer 3 Bute! armered recovery vehicle of Panzerpatailon 393, Hohenfels, January 1396, ‘Bergepanzer 3 Bel (utale) ARV Is an up-reted development onthe chassis ofthe Leopard 2 batle tank “The German Army receive their frst Buel in August 1892, So far 100 Bergooanzer $ Buffel armored recovery vehicles have been ordered, and thore isan option for another 78 vehicles. The photo shows a Buel belonging {to PeBii 393 in January 1996 at CMTC Hohen‘els. Nat the lack of tack aprons oS & ae ae a § : ‘With the Bergepanzer Bitte! ARY, the nk troops have a supponting vercle that consiaeraoly mjproves the toting billy ofthe Leopard 2 bat tank ‘The weight ofthe Buta ¢ 545 tonnes, and ite main wien instalation Nas a foal length of 180 melo (187 yalds). This prise chvie the recovering ol Leopard 284 by @ Be! of Pt! 104 at CMTC Hohanfals in Decomoer 1988,A tank train, Here, during the ‘Rhine Drawsko" maneuver in. Apti 1997 in Poland, a Ou “Bargingsiank 600 KN Biff!" tows twa broken down vehicles at the same time: a Leopard 2A4 and @ YPR 785 FAL armored personnel carer. Many of the Components of the Bergepenzer & Buffel originate rom the Leopard 2 bate tani From a sistanes of one meter (about a yard) the crane boom Can if 30 tonnes. Having the recovery equipment of the Bergopanzer 3 Bulfel armored recovery vehicle located above the ow blade allous the three-man crow to perloim recovering tasks unde! Protection of he tank so no crew ‘momaer has to leave the vehicle, Seen here ia Bilel of GebPeBt B in vaner camouflage in January 1995 at CMTC Hohenfels, ‘The Bergenanzer 3 Biel armored recovery vehicle was. developed and purchased joinly by Germany and the Netheriands, In 1992 the frst “Bergingstank 600 KN Buffel was delivras to the Dutch Army. This photo ‘shows the 54.5-tonna Botta! of 104 (NL) Tankbataljon towing a broken down Leopard 2 batie tank over a Fibbon Bridge near Eystub on she Weser river during the “Light Viper $3" manewvar.BATCH 1 —=— | Bie ne i| 1/35 LEOPARD 2 BATCPUBLICATIONS COMPANY