Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/773724
Consequently, it was decided, for instance, that the need for upgrading tanks in version A4 to the newest standard would lead to an unacceptable increase of costs, estimated as over half of the purchase price of brand new Leopard 2A6/A7. In the middle of 2012, the initial assumptions concerning the scope of modernization were formulated The requirements set in relation to the upgrade package mainly referred to replacement of observation devices and sights plus modification of fire control system units. The second area of upgrade would be the improvement of the armor of the turret and the front and bottom part of the hull. In the end, however, the requested improvement of ballistic and anti-mine resistance of the hull was not approved – additional armor panels on the hull would lead to exceeding of the maximum acceptable weight of the modernized vehicle that was the same as the combat weight of an A5 type vehicle (59.5 tons – the combat weight of a non-upgraded version A4 is 55.1 tons), which would require suspension reinforcement. It was determined to be a too large interference in the hull. The change in fixing of the driver's seat was also abandoned. The third element of the modernization was the replacement of hydraulic systems controlling the turret with electric ones with increased reliability and safety. Additionally, it was planned to introduce a rear-view camera for the driver and assembly of APU which would power systems of the tank during halts. Optionally, as a part of the so-called extended modernization package, it was planned to introduce a Battle Management System, infantry communication system, remote control weapon station on top of the turret, AC system for the driving and combat compartment, as well as cooling devices for electronic units. Technical solutions were to be similar to the range of works performed by other users of Leopard 2A4 tank from the Leoben Club. In 2012, the upgrade project for Leopard 2A4 tanks was included in the "Modernization of Armored and Mechanized Units" program as a part of the Technical Modernization Program of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland for 2013-2022. Within the period from March to August 2013, the Armaments Inspectorate of the MoD conducted a technical discussions concerning the modernization of the vehicles with potential contractors, including Rheinmetall and KMW. The discussion resulted in, i.a. obtaining information about technical capabilities of potential bidders, as well as vehicles