Hungarian Defence Forces Receives First Leopard 2A7HU Main Battle Tanks

In a significant step forward for Hungary’s defense and military development program, the first fully new Leopard 2 A7HU main battle tank, as well as the versatile WiSENT 2 engineering vehicle for technical support, have arrived in the country. The new version of the Leopard 2A7 main battle tank was spotted on a tractor-trailer in Hungary. The new configuration of the tank is equipped with a new Fire Control System (FCS) with automatic target tracker, FN Herstal Remote Weapon Station (RWS), new PERI RTWL Digital stabilized commander’s periscope and improved roof protection. These newly arrived assets are believed to be initial reference models, intended to serve as benchmarks for the ongoing manufacturing process, following their domestic handover to the Hungarian authorities. After this phase, they will be returned to the manufacturer’s facility, contributing to the production of subsequent units.

This approach aligns with previous defense procurement strategies, as seen with the PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzers recently.While the current delivery consists of reference models, it represents a significant milestone in the fulfillment of Hungary’s Leopard 2 A7HU order. The acquisition of the Leopard 2 A7HU main battle tanks and WiSENT 2 engineering vehicles underscores Hungary’s commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities. The Leopard 2 A7HU, known for its advanced features and robust performance, is anticipated to bolster the country’s armored fleet. Likewise, the WiSENT 2’s multifunctional capabilities will play a vital role in providing technical support for the armed forces. As Hungary takes steps to strengthen its defense infrastructure, these acquisitions signal a promising future for the country’s armed forces.

The Hungarian Ministry of Defense has signed a contract with Germany’s Krauss-Maffei Wegmann for 44 new Leopard 2A7+ main battle tanks and 24 PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzers. The contract is worth more than $565 million and included in addition 12 used Leopard 2 A4 tanks for training purposes. The new Leopard 2A7HU (2A7+) variant expected to be delivered to Hungary starting from 2023. This purchase will help the Hungarian Armed Forces to catch up to the standards of other military forces around the world. The learning process is necessary because the operation and maintenance of the new Leopard 2s are significantly different from the Soviet T-72 tanks that have been in use by the Hungarian Armed Forces since 1978.

The most widespread version of the Leopard 2 family, the 2A4 models included more substantial changes, including an automated fire and explosion suppression system, an all-digital fire control system able to handle new ammunition types, and an improved turret with flat titanium/tungsten armour. The Leopard 2A7+ is designed to operate both in low intensity and high intensity conflicts. The tank’s protection has been increased by modular armour; the frontal protection has been improved with a dual-kit on the turret and hull front, while 360° protection against RPGs and mine protection increase the survivability of the tank in urban operations.t can fire programmable HE munitions and the turret mounted MG3 has been replaced with a stabilised FLW 200 remotely controlled weapon station. The mobility, sustainability and situational awareness have also been improved.