Leclerc XLR
| Industry | Defense |
|---|---|
| Products | Leclerc XLR main battle tank |
The Leclerc XLR represents a French fourth-generation main battle tank (MBT) engineered and manufactured by KNDS France. It serves as an upgraded iteration of the third-generation Leclerc tank, featuring improvements such as a remotely controlled 7.62mm machine gun mounted on the turret, supplied by Belgian company FN Herstal. Additional modular armor has been applied to both the turret and hull, while wire cage armor installed at the rear safeguards the engine compartment against rocket-propelled grenade attacks.
Its classification as a fourth-generation tank primarily stems from sophisticated electronic systems: a networked framework that incorporates the Thales tactical radio, NBC protection, night vision capabilities, and the Atos SCORPION Information and Command System (SICS) equipped with modernized display units. Further enhancements include a counter-IED jammer, revamped man-machine interfaces for both commander and gunner, upgraded main system computers, and a battle health monitoring system. The inertial navigation system is integrated with GPS technology to improve positional accuracy.
History
In March 2015, plans were announced to upgrade 200 Leclerc tanks to the fourth-generation standard, with the initial two XLR prototypes expected by 2018. The remaining 198 units were slated for modernization over an eight-year period commencing in 2020. This contract was valued at roughly €330 million. By 2025, it is anticipated that 122 of these tanks will have undergone conversion to the XLR configuration.
Current operators
- : 15 units currently in service (from an order of 200)
Potential operators
- : In January 2022, Nexter received inquiries from India concerning involvement in the Future Ready Combat Vehicle program through a Leclerc XLR MBT proposal. On 1 January 2022, the Indian Army reportedly solicited French bids to supply 1,000 Leclerc XLR tanks aimed at replacing its older T-72 models.
- : Discussions took place in April 2022 between Nexter representatives and Croatian officials regarding the possible procurement of Leclerc XLR tanks for Croatia’s armed forces.
See also
- Leclerc Evolution, a French initiative for a fourth-generation main battle tank
- EMBT ADT140, a collaborative French-German fourth-generation MBT project
- Main Ground Combat System, a joint French-German program developing next-generation main battle tanks and tactical vehicles