Leopard Tank – History

The Leopard tank burst onto the defence scene in 1965. It was designed and built in Germany and was so popular it became the main battle tank for more than 12 countries around the world. The name continued the German tradition of calling their armoured fighting vehicles after wild animals.

This original Leopard tank, or Leopard 1, is considered a conventional tank and is best known for its speed, particularly cross-country. It is fitted with a 105mm gun. Approximately 6500 Leopard tanks were built, most of which were used as battle tanks with some used for utility and anti-aircraft purposes.

While still used in some countries, the Leopard 1 was gradually downgraded to less important jobs with the introduction of the Leopard 2.

Like the original Leopard, the Leopard 2 is also a German-made and was introduced to service in 1979. Various versions of the Leopard 2 have seen action in armed forces of Germany and worldwide. The tank is used by more than 12 countries. Close to 3500 Leopard 2 tanks have been manufactured.

Over the years the Leopard tank has become more and more hi-tech. Some of the improved features have included advanced armour plating, digital fire control systems with laser rangefinders, a main gun and coaxial machine gun, advanced night vision and sighting and thermal imaging.

Many versions of the Leopard 2 can drive through water four metres deep through the use of a snorkel more than one metre high and can scale vertical obstacles in excess of one metre high.

The Leopard 2E is similar to the Leopard 2, however, it is purpose-built for the requirements of the Spanish Army. Since 2003 the Leopard 2E has been built in Spain. Just over 200 Leopard 2E tanks have been delivered to the Spanish Army.