War Thunder Leopard 2A7V OP: A Comprehensive Overview
The Leopard 2A7V, also known as the Leopard 2A7V OP, is a highly advanced main battle tank developed by Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) for the German Army. This tank is a part of the Leopard 2 family, which is renowned for its exceptional performance and reliability. In this article, we will delve into the various aspects of the Leopard 2A7V OP, including its design, specifications, and capabilities.
Design and Development
The Leopard 2A7V OP was developed as an upgrade to the Leopard 2A6V, which was already a formidable tank. The primary goal of the upgrade was to enhance the tank’s survivability, mobility, and combat effectiveness. The design of the Leopard 2A7V OP is based on the modular approach, which allows for easy upgrades and maintenance.
The tank features a low-profile design, which helps in reducing its radar cross-section and making it harder to detect. The hull and turret of the Leopard 2A7V OP are made of high-quality steel, providing excellent protection against enemy fire. The tank also features a composite armor package, which further enhances its survivability.
Armament and Firepower
The Leopard 2A7V OP is equipped with the Rheinmetall L55 120mm smoothbore gun, which is one of the most powerful main battle tank guns in the world. The gun is capable of firing a variety of ammunition types, including high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT), armor-piercing fin-stabilized discarding-sabot (APFSDS), and high-explosive (HE) rounds. The tank can also fire the Leopardschusspanzerfaust 3 (LSPF 3) anti-tank missile, which provides an additional layer of defense against enemy tanks.
The Leopard 2A7V OP is equipped with a Rheinmetall MG3 coaxial machine gun and a Rheinmetall MG4 pintle-mounted machine gun. The tank’s fire control system is highly advanced, allowing for accurate and rapid targeting. The tank’s gun can be elevated to 18 degrees and depressed to -10 degrees, providing excellent all-around coverage.
Mobility and Propulsion
The Leopard 2A7V OP is powered by a MTU MB 873 Ka-501 V12 diesel engine, which produces 1,500 horsepower. The engine is paired with a ZF LSG 3000 hydrostatic transmission, which provides smooth and efficient power distribution to the tank’s tracks. The tank can reach a maximum speed of 70 kilometers per hour (43.5 miles per hour) on roads and 50 kilometers per hour (31 miles per hour) off-road.
The Leopard 2A7V OP is equipped with a hydro-pneumatic suspension system, which allows for excellent mobility over rough terrain. The tank can ford water obstacles up to 4 meters deep and climb slopes of up to 60 percent. The tank’s tracks are made of high-quality rubber, providing excellent traction and durability.
Survivability and Protection
The Leopard 2A7V OP is designed to provide excellent protection against enemy fire. The tank’s hull and turret are made of high-quality steel, providing protection against armor-piercing rounds. The tank also features a composite armor package, which provides additional protection against shaped charge warheads.
The tank is equipped with a dynamic protection system, which automatically deploys explosive reactive armor panels to protect against enemy fire. The system can be activated manually or automatically, depending on the situation. The tank also features a fire suppression system, which helps in preventing fires caused by enemy fire or internal malfunctions.
Command and Control
The Leopard 2A7V OP is equipped with an advanced command and control system, which allows for effective communication and coordination with other vehicles. The tank’s digital battlefield management system provides real-time information about the tank’s position, status, and the surrounding environment.
The tank’s crew consists of three members: the commander, gunner, and loader. The crew is equipped with advanced night vision devices, which allow them to operate effectively in low-light conditions. The tank’s fire control system is also equipped with a thermal imager, which provides the crew with a clear view of the battlefield at night.
Conclusion
The Leopard 2A7V OP is a highly advanced main battle tank that represents the pinnacle of German tank technology. Its exceptional design, armament, mobility, and protection make it one of the most formidable tanks in the world.