Germany unveils Leopard 2A8: NATO’s eastern flank gets next-generation shield

Germany’s defence industry unveiled the Leopard 2A8, the latest iteration of the renowned main battle tank that has been a cornerstone of armored forces across Europe and beyond for decades.

According to German defence officials, the A8 marks the first entirely new Leopard build since 1992, following several previous versions that were modernizations of existing tanks, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

The Bundeswehr has ordered 123 of the nearly 70-ton vehicles, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2027 and conclude by 2030. The initial batch is slated for deployment with Germany’s 45th Tank Brigade in Lithuania — the first permanent German military presence outside the country since World War II — as part of NATO’s efforts to reinforce vulnerable eastern flank states against potential Russian aggression.

A standout feature of the Leopard 2A8 is the locally-produced version of Israel’s Trophy active protection system, designed to intercept incoming projectiles. German officials previously tested Trophy on an earlier Leopard variant and opted to integrate it as standard equipment on the A8.

Additional enhancements include upgraded armor and a comprehensive overhaul of situational-awareness and fire-control systems, aimed at improving crew effectiveness in complex operational environments. Rheinmetall’s 120 mm smoothbore main cannon continues to serve as the tank’s primary armament.

Beyond Germany, other NATO members are also adding the Leopard 2A8 to their arsenals. Lithuania, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, and Norway have reportedly placed orders, signaling strong regional demand for the advanced platform.

The deployment in Lithuania will coincide with the brigade reaching full operational capability in 2027, aligning with the first Leopard 2A8 deliveries and reinforcing NATO’s deterrence posture on the alliance’s eastern frontier.

By Vafa Guliyeva