KNDS has delivered the first of a total of 110 comprehensively modernized Stridsvagn 123 A systems (LEOPARD 2 SWE) to the Swedish procurement agency FMV (Försvarets materielverk / Swedish Defence Materiel Administration). The modernization program, named REMO (Renovation Modernization), covers all Swedish LEOPARD 2 main battle tanks and will be completed in 2030. The modernization includes an increase in combat capability, a higher level of protection, digitalization measures, as well as a logistics package. With its new gun (L55 A1), the Swedish LEOPARD 2 significantly increases its range and firepower. In addition, the Stridsvagn 123 A is equipped with fully digital workstations and offers the highest level of connectivity. In autumn 2026, the Swedish army will begin training its first soldiers on the main battle tank.
In January 2025 Sweden ordered a new batch of 44 Leopard 2 A8 from Germany and announced that the remaining Leopard 2 (Stridsvagn 122) would be modernised and upgraded. In June 1994, Sweden ordered the production of 120 modified Leopard 2A5, to be known as stridsvagn 122 (strv 122) in Swedish service. The strv 122 features Swedish-developed appliqué armour, a new command system, and improved electronics.[93] Of the 120 Strv 122, 29 were manufactured in Germany by Krauss-Maffei Wegmann while the other 91 were manufactured by the Swedish firms Bofors and Hägglunds. Sweden also leased a total of 160 Leopard 2A4 tanks in 1994 and 1995, known in Swedish service as Stridsvagn 121 (Strv 121), as a stopgap measure while the strv 122 were being delivered. The first Stridsvagn 122 was delivered in December 1996. These remain in Swedish service and have received periodic upgrades.
“Since decades, we have maintained a close, friendly, and trusting cooperation with Sweden, which is also reflected in this project. Sweden has made a significant contribution to the Stridsvagn 123 A main battle tank system and has been driving the development of the LEOPARD 2 for almost 30 years,” said Florian Hohenwarter, CEO of KNDS Deutschland, during a ceremonial handover event in Munich. “The Stridsvagn 123 A is clearly one of the most modern main battle tanks and is fully interoperable in all areas with all LEOPARD 2 systems.”
KNDS is a leading pan-European land defense company, uniting nearly 11,000 employees and generating €4.4 billion in revenue in 2025. With a strong order backlog of €33.1 billion as of December 31, 2025, the group delivers innovative complete mission solutions built on state-of-the art technologies. Leveraging deep industrial expertise and strong partnerships, KNDS develops open, interoperable solutions combining manned and unmanned systems, designed to meet tomorrow’s operational challenges. As a prime contractor, it provides full system-of-systems capabilities, from platforms to ammunition and services, managing the entire value chain and encompassing complete product life cycles. Born from the alliance of Nexter and Krauss-Maffei Wegmann, KNDS embodies the path toward a collective and efficient future for the sovereignty of Europe’s defense by supporting the standardization and interoperability between European and NATO forces. Trusted by 40+ armies worldwide, including 24 European armed forces, KNDS benefits from decades of combat-proven experience. KNDS embodies a united, efficient model to enhance stability and long-term security in Europe and beyond.
