Top Five Most Durable NATO Tanks Worldwide

As Russia prepares to roll out its next-generation T-14 Armata tank, NATO countries are accelerating the pace of their existing tank modernization programs. Here are five of the most advanced tanks that are currently in use or will be fielded in the near future by NATO.

1. M1A2C Abrams

The M1A2C, in its latest 2019 configuration, is undoubtedly the most advanced tank in the NATO inventory. It is the only NATO tank with a fielded active-protection system and a “smart” programmable armor-piercing round. It also features upgrades to the internal armor arrays in the hull and turret, as well as upgraded third-generation thermal imaging systems.

The M1A2C Abrams tank also boasts additional welded-on armor on the turret face for even more protection.

While the M256 gun on the M1A2 Abrams is shorter than that on advanced Leopard 2 variants, the gun operates at a higher pressure than the original L/44 guns fitted to earlier Leopard 2s, allowing it to fire the M829A3 and M829A4 rounds.

2. Leopard 2A7V

The latest German upgrade to the Leopard 2, the Leopard 2A7V, features sensor, armament, and armor upgrades along similar lines to the M1A2C.

The long L/55 120mm gun is being replaced by the newer, higher-pressure L/55A1 gun for increased penetration. The 2A7V also features an ammunition data link similar to the M1A2C. Whether Germany has developed a “smart” armor-piercing round similar to the M829A4 is unknown, as the ammunition data link is known to be used to fire programmable DM11 rounds.

3. Leclerc XLFR

France’s advanced Leclerc tank is also receiving an upgrade in the near future with the XLFR variant. The primary feature of the upgrade is integration with the SCORPION battlefield network that’s expected to equip all future French vehicles. Armor is also increased, but no active protection systems have been spotted yet.

4. Strv 122C

Sweden is upgrading its fleet of Leo2s in the CV variant of the Strv 122, a version of the Leopard 2A5. The primary upgrades appear to be sensor-related, with the changing of the earlier thermals to third-generation devices.

Strv 122s have better armor than most NATO Leopard 2s, as they are fitted with the full MEXAS-H armor package, which was reduced on German Leopard 2A5s. This provides them with better protection against cluster artillery munitions.

However, the 122C’s armament is not receiving a major upgrade and retains the upgraded L/44 gun, limiting its armor-piercing potential.

5. Leopard 2A6 HEL

Greece’s Leopard 2A6 features additional armor versus regular Leopard 2A6s, being an adopted version of the Leopard 2A6EX prototype. The additional armor comes from extra reinforcement on the upper glacis plate and crew hatches, as well as a full MEXAS package.

While the 2A6 HEL only features a standard L/55 gun, it remains one of the more formidable tanks within NATO.

In conclusion, NATO countries are striving to maintain their technological edge in tank warfare through advanced modernization programs. These tanks showcase a variety of upgrades, including improved sensors, armaments, and armor, as they adapt to the evolving threats of modern combat.

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