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The Greek company EODH, in cooperation with the Belgian-Spanish DUMA and the German KNDS (formerly Krauss-Maffei Wegmann), presented the Leopard 1HEL, an updated version of the Leopard 1A5 main battle tank with a modular modernization package. The modernization aims to update the aging German main battle tank and was presented as an option for the Greek army, which is the largest user of this type of tank in the world.
Details
According to EODH, several other countries operating the Leopard 1A5 have also expressed interest in this upgrade. In addition to the Leopard 1A5, EODH and its partners are also finalizing a similar upgrade package for the M60 series tanks, indicating a broader strategy to provide upgrade solutions for various tank models. This approach aims to extend the service life and improve the operational efficiency of these aging tanks as several countries seek comprehensive and cost-effective solutions to modernize these military assets.
The Leopard 1HEL upgrade package, which increased the total weight of the tank to 46 tons, brought several improvements to the Leopard 1A5. With a new 1000 horsepower engine, upgraded transmission and suspension systems, the Leopard 1HEL is expected to deliver higher on- and off-road speeds and better handling capabilities. In addition, the tank now has features such as an auto-cleaning engine air filter unit, strengthened transmission components to handle the increased torque and combat weight, and main gears adapted for compatibility with the upgraded gearbox. The option for a new one-piece rubber track is aimed at improving suspension performance and reducing weight, while the introduction of hydro-pneumatic wishbones improves suspension performance and optimizes interior space. Automatic track tensioners, controlled from the driver's seat, ensure proper tension for improved traction, while a new battery and power management system increase efficiency and reliability.
The proposed upgrade involves updating the turret and hull of the tank with advanced systems and technologies while retaining the 105 mm gun, which is supplemented with next-generation ammunition to increase its performance. Utilizing the large inventory of existing munitions is a key aspect of the upgrade that contributes to its viability as a cost-effective solution.
The updated firepower of the Leopard 1HEL tank is mainly focused on the implementation of a new Fire Control System (FCS) and Weapon Control System (GCS), which provide an advanced targeting and engagement system. Key features include a fully stabilized main sight for the gunner, aligned parallel to the tank gun, and a separate, fully stabilized independent panoramic periscope for the commander, both with the same optical sensors for precise targeting. In addition, improvements such as a long-range thermal imaging camera, a day camera with a continuous zoom lens, as well as a digital laser rangefinder and laser pointer contribute to the accuracy of the alignment of the barrel of the gun.
The modernization effort also includes the integration of a remote weapon station (RWS) equipped with a 12,7mm M2 machine gun and an integrated anti-drone early warning system. Fire control schemes have been reworked so that the commander can activate or deactivate each weapon system, providing the ability to overlap the gunner and engage both air and ground targets independently. Advanced target tracking capabilities and a dynamic aperture reference system are included to improve targeting accuracy. Technological integrations such as a dynamic aperture reference system, automatic target tracking, and integration of data from web weather sources and GPS further expand the tank's operational capabilities.
The Leopard 1HEL's protection and survivability is built around a full suite of both passive and active defense systems that include a suite of sensors and countermeasures.
Technologically, the Leopard 1HEL is equipped with multi-functional touch-sensitive liquid crystal screens and wired control panels, which facilitates efficient data exchange between crew members and enables quick role switching. The commander has the ability to dynamically control each weapon system, allowing for rapid adaptation to battle scenarios, including the deployment of anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), munitions, and drones for enhanced detection and targeting.
The Leopard 1HEL has been upgraded to a fully digitized, networked combat platform that integrates a sophisticated array of sensors and weapons systems. These improvements are coordinated with artificial intelligence aimed at supporting the operational requirements of modern warfare. The system architecture enables communication with both manned and unmanned units, including UAVs, unmanned aircraft and freely accessible munitions, over secure high-speed data links. This integration enables the sharing and exchange of real-time tactical situational data, supporting operations that range from individual soldiers to larger formations such as tactical battle groups and brigades.
The Leopard 1HEL includes an advanced battlefield management system (BMS) that uses artificial intelligence to help operators manage the complex conditions of modern combat. This system is designed to reduce the operational burden on crew members by automating routine processes and increasing the speed of decision-making, thereby supporting combat effectiveness.
Communication and connectivity capabilities have been greatly enhanced with a digital intercom system that includes:
- noise canceling headsets compatible with three Combat Network (CNR) transceivers;
- SATCOM transceiver to extend communication coverage;
- an external communication system with a V/UHF transceiver;
- controlled software, for voice and command communication;
A secure high-speed radio data transmission system is included to control UAVs and robots, and the communication server is designed to meet C5I requirements by automatically selecting the best communication channel to ensure safe and uninterrupted data transmission.
