Difference between revisions of "Leopard 2 PL"

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m (→‎Survivability and armour: Determined that the 2A4's turret was not absolutely impenetrable even compared to rounds found at its own BR, also due to the additions of the Object 292 and the 120S.)
 
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{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=germ_leopard_2pl
 
|code=germ_leopard_2pl
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a squadron rank {{Specs|rank}} German medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Ixwa Strike"]].
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The '''Leopard 2PL''' is a Polish heavy modification of the [[Leopard 2A4]], which is the fifth variant of the [[Leopard 2 (Family)|Leopard 2 main battle tank family]]. Poland initially received the Leopard 2A4 in the 2000s after purchasing it from Germany. Modernization is underway in collaboration with Rheinmetall and the Polish Armaments Group. The need for modernization became apparent as soon as the Polish Army received the first Leopard 2A4 tanks from the German Army (Bundeswehr) in 2002; nevertheless, the initial efforts to create its plan and scope did not begin until mid-2012. Leopard 2PL incorporated several significant upgrades. The fundamental upgrades involved the installation of an electric turret drive and gun stabilization (rather than a hydraulic one), the installation of an auxiliary power unit (APU), the installation of new thermal imaging equipment, the modernization of the driver's seat, and the installation of a new anti-explosion system, fire and mine protection package. A BMS combat management system, remote-controlled weapon stations on the tank's turret, new types of ammunition, air conditioning systems in the driver and combat compartment, and modernization of the electronics cooling system were also installed. The most notable difference is the increased ballistic resistance of the turret, which exceeds that of the [[Leopard 2A5|Leopard 2A5 variant]]. Around the vehicle turret, additional external composite armour modules are added. However, it was not decided to reinforce the hull and vehicle chassis since this would result in a large increase in vehicle weight and budget limitations as well. Inside the vehicle, special anti-splinter liners have been placed to shield the crew in case of successful enemy ammunition penetration.
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Introduced in [[Update "Ixwa Strike"]] as a squadron vehicle, the Leopard 2PL is a significantly modified Leopard 2A4, much like the [[C2A1|Leopard C2A1 MEXAS]] ideology. The major purpose of the modernisation is to keep the Polish Army Leopard 2A4 up to date with modern combat environments and improve tank protection due to more advanced tank ammunition developed by various nations across the world. The addition of a commander's independent sight provides the tank commander with an independent sight outfitted with thermal imaging equipment, introducing hunter-killer capabilities. Overall, it feels remarkably comparable to the regular Leopard 2A4, with the exception that mobility is substantially decreased due to the additional exterior composite armour modules fitted around the vehicle turret, which resulted in increased weight.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
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<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
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<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->The Leopard 2PL features the strongest turret for the Leopard 2 series in game so far due to the turret armor package, negating some of the issues of the original 2A4. Unlike the [[Strv 122A]] and the [[Strv 122B PLSS]] however, it still retains the mediocre hull armor of the Leopard 2 and Improved series, being unable to stop most shells at its BR. Unlike the Leopard 2 Improved however, the 2PL does not have a redesigned turret face, meaning that it retains the same turret weakspots as the Leopard 2A4, such as the Gunner Primary Sight and the gun mantlet. However, unlike the 2A4, due to the additional composite screen, the gun mantlet is no longer an issue against chemical projectiles such as 3BK18M, but is still penetrable by most APFSDS found at this BR.
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[[File:Leopard 2PL Heat vs gps.png|thumb|Due to volumetric armour,  HEAT-FS rounds are not able to penetrate the GPS]]
 
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[[File:Leopard 2PL Dart vs gps.png|thumb|APFSDS dart is able to penetrate the Gunner Primary Sight taking out both gunner and commander. However the add-on armour reduces the chances of killing them both in a single shot.]]
 
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The Leopard 2PL features the strongest and most armoured turret for the Leopard 2 series tanks seen in game so far. It features a stronger turret armour compared to all the Leopard 2 seen in game but has no add-on hull protection as the [[Strv 122A]] and the [[Strv 122B PLSS]]. This version is based on the 2A4 series, and so features the same problems with the hull armour, barely enough to stop rounds seen in game. However, it completely removes the armour issues from the turret. At first sight, the GPS (Gunner Primary Sight) can be seen as the main weak point since it is the same weakspot the 2A4 has. However, taking into consideration the new armour package, hitting the GPS makes is far harder without hitting add-on armour first. As seen in the image, the GPS is mostly safe from HEAT-FS and other chemical shells due to the volumetric armour, meaning they will either prematurely explode, or simply not be able to penetrate the 500+ mm of protection offered by the add-on armour package. However, for sub-calibre rounds like APFSDS, the composite armour offers less protection. As seen in the Leopard 2A4, any hit to the GPS means both gunner and commander will be knocked out. However, chances of hitting the GPS in the exact place for it to disable both crew members is reduced immensely thanks to the add-on armour. Most of the time, any hit to the GPS will result in the knock-out of the commander only with partial damage to the gunner. As seen in picture, the area highlighted is the place in which both the gunner and commander can be killed with a single shot (more specifically the lower section of the rectangular optic in the GPS).
 
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[[File:Leopard 2PL HEAT-FS vs turret sides.png|thumb|MILAN ATGM is unable to penetrate the turret sides.]]
 
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[[File:Leopard 2PL DM53 vs add-on.png|left|thumb|346x346px|DM53 round is unable to penetrate the add-on armour.]]
 
  
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The 2PL is also the first tank in game to be able to withstand more than one hit of CL3143, DM53 and 9M119 to the turret. Previous Leopards (specifically the 2A5 and 2A6 including the Strv 122) can withstand 9M119 to the turret. However, the wedge panels of these tanks are exploded with a single hit, which means the turret is exposed to further enemy fire. This changes with the 2PL. Due to the fact that the armoured add-on package is a permanent part of the tank, it is able to withstand up to 4 9M119 hits and continuous firing of the CL3143 and DM53 at any ranges. Despite this, all of them are able to penetrate the gun mantlet with no issues at all. However, for your enemies it is rather tricky to achieve this since if they are aiming at the turret's front, you can also kill them as well. Moving to turret's add-on side armour, it is able to withstand all types of HEAT-FS and chemical shells seen in game. However, the armour protection is increased gradually as we move to the turret front. The first section of the side armour (the one covering the smoke launchers) is relatively weak and is able to be penetrated by all ammunitions seen in the battle-rating. The second section (covering the first half of the sides of the crew compartments) is able to withstand all HEAT-FS in game and [[MILAN]] ATGM (meaning is able to withstand up to 580 mm of penetration). The third section of the side armour (covering the second half of the crew compartment) is able to withstand all penetration up to 800 mm of CE (Chemical). When we talk about KE (Kinetic) protection, the side armour offers little to no protection whatsoever, and can be penetrated by nearly all high-calibre weapons at its battle rating.
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The 2PL is also able to withstand more than one hit from CL3143, DM53 and 9M119 to the turret face. As opposed to Leopard 2 Improved models (2A5, 2A6, 122), which can typically only withstand a high powered shell to the turret since the additional composite wedge is likely to have been blown off. This changes with the 2PL. Due to the additional armor package being modeled as a permanent part of the tank, the turret face is able to withstand multiple hits from 9M119 and CL3143 and DM53 at any ranges. Moving to turret's add-on side armour, it is able to withstand hits from chemical penetrators up to 400mms, gradually increasing as we move towards the turret front, where a additional wedge from the Leopard 2 Improved can be found mounted on top of the add-on armor over the gunner's position and cannon breech, resulting in around 1500mms of protection against chemical projectiles and 1000mms of protection against kinetic penetrators in some areas, even being able to negate some top tier APFSDS such as 3BM60.
  
 
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
 
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
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! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
|-
 
|-
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| Hull || {{Annotation|Composite Armour|35 mm High hardness rolled armor + 520 mm External composite armor with NERA elements + 45 mm Rolled homogeneous armor}} ''Upper Glacis'' <br> 35 mm (53°) || 20 mm ''Top'' <br>35 mm ''Bottom'' || 20 mm || 20 - 35 mm
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| Hull || {{Annotation|Composite Armour|35 mm High hardness rolled armour + 520 mm External composite armour with NERA elements + 45 mm Rolled homogeneous armour}} ''Upper Glacis'' <br> 35 mm (53°) || 20 mm ''Top'' <br>35 mm ''Bottom'' || 20 mm || 20 - 35 mm
 
|-
 
|-
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| Turret || 35 mm ''Turret front'' <br> 35 mm ''Gun mantlet'' <br> Variable thickness add-on armour || 15 - 35 mm <br> 300 mm Composite Screen Variable thickness add-on armour || 25 mm || 20 mm
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| Turret || 35 mm ''Turret front'' <br> 35 mm ''Gun mantlet'' <br> Variable thickness add-on armour || 15 - 35 mm <br> 300 mm Composite Screen Variable thickness add-on armour || 25 mm || 20 mm
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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| Hull || '''''Upper+Lower glacis''''' <br> 400 mm ''Kinetic'' <br> 600 mm ''Chemical''|| N/A
 
| Hull || '''''Upper+Lower glacis''''' <br> 400 mm ''Kinetic'' <br> 600 mm ''Chemical''|| N/A
 
|-
 
|-
−
|Turret || '''''Turret cheeks''''' <br> 1010 mm ''Kinetic'' <br> 1520 mm ''Chemical'' <br> '''''Gun mantlet (Center)''''' <br> 478 - 615 mm ''Kinetic'' <br> 730- 1400 mm ''Chemical'' <br> '''''Gun mantlet (Outer)''''' <br> 524 - 915 mm ''Kinetic'' <br> 535 - 1520 mm ''Chemical'' || '''''Side armour''''' <br> 260 mm ''Kinetic'' <br> 230 - 600 mm ''Chemical''
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|Turret || '''''Turret cheeks''''' <br> 1010 mm ''Kinetic'' <br> 1,520 mm ''Chemical'' <br> '''''Gun mantlet (Center)''''' <br> 478 - 615 mm ''Kinetic'' <br> 730- 1,400 mm ''Chemical'' <br> '''''Gun mantlet (Outer)''''' <br> 524 - 915 mm ''Kinetic'' <br> 535 - 1,520 mm ''Chemical'' || '''''Side armour''''' <br> 260 mm ''Kinetic'' <br> 230 - 600 mm ''Chemical''
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
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The Leopard 2PL features identical mobility to the rest of the Leopard 2 series (with exception to Leopard 2 prototypes).
  
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=2,032|rbMinHp=1,327}}
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=2,032|rbMinHp=1,327}}
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The Leopard 2PL features a similar mobility to the rest of the Leopard 2 series (with exception of 2K). Has no particular upgrade or drawback compared to 2A4, 2A5 or 2A6. It should be noted, as the rest of Leopard 2 series, it features a relatively low acceleration in neutral steering.
 
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
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<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
  
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The Leopard 2PL is fitted with the powerful Rh120 L/44 120 mm gun, a gun that has been seen since the Leopard 2K. This gun features the same ballistics of the Leopard 2A4 and 2A5 using the same darts, meaning the gun handling is the same and it should not be a hassle when firing.
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The Leopard 2PL is fitted with the powerful Rh120 L/44 120 mm, a gun that has been utilized since the Leopard 2K. DM33 features the same ballistics of those found on the 2A5 and is similar to the 2A6. However, the 2PL is also equipped with the nonexistent DM43, being able to penetrate only up to 530mms of armor as opposed to the DM53 round found on the 2A5/6, which is able to penetrate over 600mms of rolled homogenous armor.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
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The 2PL has access to all the ammunition seen in Leopard 2 series past 2A4 with exception of DM53. It has access to a unique round, DM11, proximity fuze HE shell. All are capable rounds which are not new and have same handling.
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The 2PL has access to all the ammunition seen in the Leopard 2 Improved series except DM53. It also has access to a unique time fused HE not found on other Leopard series.
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''HEAT-FS:''
 
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The DM12A1 is the first round the 2PL has access to, it can be considered a mediocre round as most of the enemies which will be faced will be able to withstand it due to composite armour. However, it is particuallary useful when facing light armoured vehicles which are prompt to hull break (SPAA, light tanks, etc) and useful when facing enemy helicopters as it has enough explosive mass and flight speed to be competitive as last resort. As a hollow charge, it is prompt to detonate mid air due to trees, bushes and fences. This makes the round difficult to use when in long range engagements as some field elements may not be rendered.
 
  
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''APFSDS:''
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'''DM12A1; HEATFS''' - The DM12A1 is the first round the 2PL has access to, and is considered a mediocre round, as it's unable to reliably penetrate certain tanks equipped with ERA at its BR. However, it is quite useful when used against lightly armoured vehicles such as IFVs or SPAAs. As a hollow charge, it is prone to detonating mid air due to trees, bushes and fences.
  
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The 2PL has access to 2 types of APFSDS: the DM33 and DM43. The DM33 is a decent round with decent penetration and stopping power. While it lacks penetration to frontally penetrate some MBTs, it is enough to hit and cause critical damage in weakspots and side shots. DM43 however has much more penetration, and can typically penetrate all tanks from all sides.
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'''DM33 & DM43; APFSDS''' - The 2PL has access to 2 types of APFSDS: DM33 and DM43, both of which perform similarly against tanks at its BR, since most tanks don't have exactly 55mms more frontal armor that can be penetrated by the latter but not the former.
  
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''HE:''
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'''DM11; HE''' - DM11 is a new HE-TF shell found on the Rheinmetall L/44. Which can be deadly to low flying helicopters in certain situations due to the timed fuse.
  
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The DM11 is the a new HE-VT proxy shell for germany. It is pretty much useless against non lightly armoured vehicles (even 20 mm roofs will stop the spalling if an air explosion is done) but can be devastating against helicopters as there will be no need for direct hit in order to cause critical damage. It should be noted that the round has to fly at least 400 meters to arm the fuse. It has a trigger radius of 10m.
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{{:Rh120 L/44 (120 mm)/Ammunition|DM12A1, DM11, DM33, DM43}}
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{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
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! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
 
−
|-
 
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! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
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! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
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! colspan="6" | Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
 
−
|-
 
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! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
 
−
|-
 
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| DM12A1 || HEATFS || 480 || 480 || 480 || 480 || 480 || 480
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM11 || HE-TF || 37 || 37 || 37 || 37 || 37 || 37
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM33 || APFSDS || 481 || 478 || 470 || 461 || 450 || 440
 
−
|-
 
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| DM43 || APFSDS || 536 || 534 || 528 || 521 || 514 || 507
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
−
! colspan="10" | Shell details
 
−
|-
 
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! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
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! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
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! rowspan="2" | Velocity<br>(m/s)
 
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! rowspan="2" | Projectile<br>Mass (kg)
 
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! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay<br>(m)
 
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! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity<br>(mm)
 
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! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass<br>(TNT equivalent) (g)
 
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! colspan="3" | Ricochet
 
−
|-
 
−
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM12A1 || HEATFS || 1,140 || 13.5 || 0.05 || 0.1 || 2,150 || 65° || 72° || 77°
 
−
|-
 
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| DM11 || HE-TF || 950 || 19 || 0 || 0.1 || 3,930 || 79° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM33 || APFSDS || 1,640 || 4.3 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 78° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
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| DM43 || APFSDS || 1,660 || 4.3 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 78° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
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<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
  
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The 2PL playstyle is identical to the 2A4 (and also subsequent German MBTs). One of the key differences between the 2PL over the rest is the stronger turret armour. In terms of armament, the 2PL has the powerful Rh120 L/44 which German tankers are already familiar with.
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The 2PL playstyle is identical to the 2A4 and subsequent German MBTs. However, the 2PL may be able to utilize hull down tactics more effectively due to the additional turret armor. In terms of armament, the 2PL has the powerful Rh120 L/44 which German tankers are already familiar with.
  
 
'''Enemies worth noting:'''
 
'''Enemies worth noting:'''
  
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*[[M1 Abrams (Family)|M1 Abrams]]: Turret frontal plates are very strong, ensure an angle within 45° when using DM33.
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*[[M1 Abrams (Family)|M1 Abrams]]: Good turret protection, but dead in the water if you fire anything at the UFP.
−
*[[Leopard 2A4]]/[[Strv 121]]: UFP and turret frontal plates can be penetrated by DM33.
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*[[Strv 121]]: Hull and turret face can be penetrated by DM33.
−
*[[Leopard 2A5]]/[[Leopard 2A6]]: UFP and turret frontal plates can be penetrated by DM33. Turret wedges should be blown out first in order to penetrate the turret frontal plate.
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*[[Strv 122A]]/[[Strv 122B PLSS]]: Hull front impenetrable by DM33 unless MEXAS armour package is destroyed. Turret can be penetrated if additional composite screens are blown off
−
*[[Strv 122A]]/[[Strv 122B PLSS]]: UFP impenetrable by DM33 unless MEXAS armour package is destroyed. Turret wedges should be blown out first in order to penetrate the turret frontal plate.
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*[[Leclerc]]/[[Leclerc S2]]: Avoid aiming at the commander side of the turret even with DM43 APFSDS.
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*[[Leclerc]]/[[Leclerc S2]]: Leclerc front is impenetrable by all rounds unless shots are made entirely into the lower half of the LFP, DM43 is advised.
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*[[Challenger 2]]: LFP, breech, and driver's port.
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*[[Challenger 2]]: Front impenetrable by all rounds unless shots are made to driver's port.
 
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
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* Good turret armour
 
* Good turret armour
−
* Good gun (same as the [[Leopard 2A4]] and [[Leopard 2A5|2A5]])
+
* Effective gun
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* Good mobility, due to its powerful engine
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* Better APFSDS shell (DM43) than other Leopard 2A4s
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* Has access DM11 HE-FS round, can easily counter helicopters and low flying planes
+
* Excellent mobility
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* Good reload rate
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* Has access to 3rd generation thermals for both the gunner and commander
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
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* Nearly no gun mantlet armour
+
* Same turret weaknesses as the 2A4, minus the gun mantlet specifically against chemical penetrators.
−
* Hull armour is also not so good, is based on the Leopard 2A4
+
* Unreliable hull armour
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* GPS is a big weakspot (against APFSDS)
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* The Leopard 2A4's typical gunner-sight optic is still present
 +
* DM43 APFSDS shell is lacking penetration for the battle rating
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 
=== [[wt:en/news/7071-development-squadron-vehicles-leopard-2pl-polish-cavalry-en|Devblog]] ===
 
=== [[wt:en/news/7071-development-squadron-vehicles-leopard-2pl-polish-cavalry-en|Devblog]] ===
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The Leopard 2PL is an ongoing joint project for the modernization of the Leopard 2A4 tanks in service with the Polish army, currently being carried out by the German company Rheinmetall AG and the Polish state-owned Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa. The aim of the program is to improve the combat efficiency of the elderly Leopards to 3rd generation plus level main battle tanks.
+
The Leopard 2PL is an ongoing joint project for the modernization of the Leopard 2A4 tanks in service with the Polish army, currently being carried out by the German company Rheinmetall AG and the Polish state-owned Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa. The aim of the program is to improve the combat efficiency of the elderly Leopards to 3rd generation plus level main battle tanks.
  
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The main areas of modernization are improving the tank's protection and firepower. The Leopard 2PL has additional modular turret armor (forehead and sides), enhanced protection of the gun mantlet. On the turret's rear, massive boxes appeared, which under some circumstances can work as spaced armor for protection against HEAT shells. The L44 cannon remains the same, but the upgraded fire control system has modern thermal imaging equipment and is adapted for firing more powerful rounds. Since the power plant and chassis of the Leopard 2A4 remained unchanged, the additional protection of the hull had to be abandoned, as the weight of the tank approached 60 tons. In total, 128 Leopard 2A4's in service are to be upgraded under the Leopard 2PL program.
+
The main areas of modernization are improving the tank's protection and firepower. The Leopard 2PL has additional modular turret armour (forehead and sides), enhanced protection of the gun mantlet. On the turret's rear, massive boxes appeared, which under some circumstances can work as spaced armour for protection against HEAT shells. The L44 cannon remains the same, but the upgraded fire control system has modern thermal imaging equipment and is adapted for firing more powerful rounds. Since the power plant and chassis of the Leopard 2A4 remained unchanged, the additional protection of the hull had to be abandoned, as the weight of the tank approached 60 tons. In total, 128 Leopard 2A4's in service are to be upgraded under the Leopard 2PL program.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
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;Skins
 
;Skins
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* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=germany&vehicleType=tank&vehicleClass=medium_tank&vehicle=germ_leopard_2pl Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
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* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=germ_leopard_2pl Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
;Images
 
;Images
 
<gallery mode="packed" heights="150">
 
<gallery mode="packed" heights="150">
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File:Leopard 2 PL WTWallpaper 01.jpg|
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* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
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;[[Leopard 2 (Family)|Related development]]
  
 
* [[Leopard 2A4]]
 
* [[Leopard 2A4]]
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* ''other literature.'' -->
  
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* [[wt:en/news/7071-development-squadron-vehicles-leopard-2pl-polish-cavalry-en|[Development] Squadron vehicles: Leopard 2PL: Polish cavalry]]
 
* [[wt:en/news/7071-development-squadron-vehicles-leopard-2pl-polish-cavalry-en|[Development] Squadron vehicles: Leopard 2PL: Polish cavalry]]
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;Other
 
 
* [https://www.defence24.com/leopard-2pl-programme-showcased-modernization-package-for-the-polish-main-battle-tanks [Defence24<nowiki>.com]</nowiki> Leopard 2PL Programme Showcased. Modernization Package For The Polish Main Battle Tanks.]
 
* [https://www.defence24.com/leopard-2pl-programme-showcased-modernization-package-for-the-polish-main-battle-tanks [Defence24<nowiki>.com]</nowiki> Leopard 2PL Programme Showcased. Modernization Package For The Polish Main Battle Tanks.]
  
 
{{Germany medium tanks}}
 
{{Germany medium tanks}}
 
{{Squadron ground vehicles}}
 
{{Squadron ground vehicles}}

Latest revision as of 02:38, 8 July 2024

Introducing Wiki 3.0
This page is about the German medium tank Leopard 2 PL. For other versions, see Leopard 2 (Family).
Leopard 2 PL
germ_leopard_2pl.png
GarageImage Leopard 2 PL.jpg
ArtImage Leopard 2 PL.png
Leopard 2 PL
Germany flag.png Germany
VIII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
11.7 11.7 11.7
Class:
SQUADRON
Research:570 000 Specs-Card-Activity.png
Purchase:1 140 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png

Description

The Leopard 2PL is a Polish heavy modification of the Leopard 2A4, which is the fifth variant of the Leopard 2 main battle tank family. Poland initially received the Leopard 2A4 in the 2000s after purchasing it from Germany. Modernization is underway in collaboration with Rheinmetall and the Polish Armaments Group. The need for modernization became apparent as soon as the Polish Army received the first Leopard 2A4 tanks from the German Army (Bundeswehr) in 2002; nevertheless, the initial efforts to create its plan and scope did not begin until mid-2012. Leopard 2PL incorporated several significant upgrades. The fundamental upgrades involved the installation of an electric turret drive and gun stabilization (rather than a hydraulic one), the installation of an auxiliary power unit (APU), the installation of new thermal imaging equipment, the modernization of the driver's seat, and the installation of a new anti-explosion system, fire and mine protection package. A BMS combat management system, remote-controlled weapon stations on the tank's turret, new types of ammunition, air conditioning systems in the driver and combat compartment, and modernization of the electronics cooling system were also installed. The most notable difference is the increased ballistic resistance of the turret, which exceeds that of the Leopard 2A5 variant. Around the vehicle turret, additional external composite armour modules are added. However, it was not decided to reinforce the hull and vehicle chassis since this would result in a large increase in vehicle weight and budget limitations as well. Inside the vehicle, special anti-splinter liners have been placed to shield the crew in case of successful enemy ammunition penetration.

Introduced in Update "Ixwa Strike" as a squadron vehicle, the Leopard 2PL is a significantly modified Leopard 2A4, much like the Leopard C2A1 MEXAS ideology. The major purpose of the modernisation is to keep the Polish Army Leopard 2A4 up to date with modern combat environments and improve tank protection due to more advanced tank ammunition developed by various nations across the world. The addition of a commander's independent sight provides the tank commander with an independent sight outfitted with thermal imaging equipment, introducing hunter-killer capabilities. Overall, it feels remarkably comparable to the regular Leopard 2A4, with the exception that mobility is substantially decreased due to the additional exterior composite armour modules fitted around the vehicle turret, which resulted in increased weight.

General info

Survivability and armour

Composite armour
Balanced protection against all types of ammunition
Smoke grenades
Creation of a smoke screen in front of the vehicle
Armourfront / side / back
Hull80 / 65 / 25
Turret80 / 80 / 25
Crew4 people
Visibility95 %

The Leopard 2PL features the strongest turret for the Leopard 2 series in game so far due to the turret armor package, negating some of the issues of the original 2A4. Unlike the Strv 122A and the Strv 122B PLSS however, it still retains the mediocre hull armor of the Leopard 2 and Improved series, being unable to stop most shells at its BR. Unlike the Leopard 2 Improved however, the 2PL does not have a redesigned turret face, meaning that it retains the same turret weakspots as the Leopard 2A4, such as the Gunner Primary Sight and the gun mantlet. However, unlike the 2A4, due to the additional composite screen, the gun mantlet is no longer an issue against chemical projectiles such as 3BK18M, but is still penetrable by most APFSDS found at this BR.

The 2PL is also able to withstand more than one hit from CL3143, DM53 and 9M119 to the turret face. As opposed to Leopard 2 Improved models (2A5, 2A6, 122), which can typically only withstand a high powered shell to the turret since the additional composite wedge is likely to have been blown off. This changes with the 2PL. Due to the additional armor package being modeled as a permanent part of the tank, the turret face is able to withstand multiple hits from 9M119 and CL3143 and DM53 at any ranges. Moving to turret's add-on side armour, it is able to withstand hits from chemical penetrators up to 400mms, gradually increasing as we move towards the turret front, where a additional wedge from the Leopard 2 Improved can be found mounted on top of the add-on armor over the gunner's position and cannon breech, resulting in around 1500mms of protection against chemical projectiles and 1000mms of protection against kinetic penetrators in some areas, even being able to negate some top tier APFSDS such as 3BM60.

Armour type:

Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull Composite Armour Upper Glacis
35 mm (53°) 		20 mm Top
35 mm Bottom 		20 mm 20 - 35 mm
Turret 35 mm Turret front
35 mm Gun mantlet
Variable thickness add-on armour 		15 - 35 mm
300 mm Composite Screen Variable thickness add-on armour 		25 mm 20 mm
Composite armour Front Sides
Hull Upper+Lower glacis
400 mm Kinetic
600 mm Chemical		 N/A
Turret Turret cheeks
1010 mm Kinetic
1,520 mm Chemical
Gun mantlet (Center)
478 - 615 mm Kinetic
730- 1,400 mm Chemical
Gun mantlet (Outer)
524 - 915 mm Kinetic
535 - 1,520 mm Chemical 		Side armour
260 mm Kinetic
230 - 600 mm Chemical

Notes:

  • Upper hull and Lower rear hull overlap (10 + 20 mm thick)
  • Upper mantlet add-on and Mantlet armour overlap (30 + 400 mm thick)
  • Holes in the engine deck are covered by 8 mm of mesh

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB76 / 35 km/h
RB and SB69 / 31 km/h
Number of gears8 forward
4 back
Weight59.2 t
Engine power
AB2 862 hp
RB and SB1 500 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB48.3 hp/t
RB and SB25.3 hp/t

The Leopard 2PL features identical mobility to the rest of the Leopard 2 series (with exception to Leopard 2 prototypes).

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 76 35 59.2 2,032 2,862 34.32 48.34
Realistic 69 31 1,327 1,500 22.42 25.34

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB4 627 → 6 884 Sl icon.png
RB4 517 → 6 721 Sl icon.png
SB5 734 → 8 532 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications281 200 Rp icon.png
473 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost3 100 Ge icon.png
Crew training310 000 Sl icon.png
Experts1 080 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 200 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 280 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
150 / 190 / 210 % Sl icon.png
250 / 250 / 250 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
20 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
31 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
330 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
20 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
31 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
20 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
31 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
6 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
31 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
4 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement ger.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
330 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
20 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
31 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
120mm_DM_HE_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
330 Ge icon.png
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
330 Ge icon.png
Mods thermal sight.png
NVD
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
330 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
20 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
31 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
120mm_DM_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
20 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
31 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods tank laser rangefinder.png
Laser rangefinder
Research:
20 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
31 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Laser rangefinder
Reduces the error and increases the maximum measurable distance of the rangefinder
Night vision device
Improves visibility by enhancing natural light or active illumination.
Thermal imager
Allows to see thermal radiation in the infrared range day and night

Main armament

120 mm Rh120 L/44 cannon
Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Ammunition42 rounds
First-order15 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
7.8 → 6.0 s
Vertical guidance-9° / 20°

The Leopard 2PL is fitted with the powerful Rh120 L/44 120 mm, a gun that has been utilized since the Leopard 2K. DM33 features the same ballistics of those found on the 2A5 and is similar to the 2A6. However, the 2PL is also equipped with the nonexistent DM43, being able to penetrate only up to 530mms of armor as opposed to the DM53 round found on the 2A5/6, which is able to penetrate over 600mms of rolled homogenous armor.

120 mm Rh120 L/44 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 42 -9°/+20° ±180° Two-plane 38.1 52.7 64.0 70.8 75.3 7.80 6.90 6.36 6.00
Realistic 23.8 28.0 34.0 37.6 40.0

Ammunition

The 2PL has access to all the ammunition seen in the Leopard 2 Improved series except DM53. It also has access to a unique time fused HE not found on other Leopard series.

DM12A1; HEATFS - The DM12A1 is the first round the 2PL has access to, and is considered a mediocre round, as it's unable to reliably penetrate certain tanks equipped with ERA at its BR. However, it is quite useful when used against lightly armoured vehicles such as IFVs or SPAAs. As a hollow charge, it is prone to detonating mid air due to trees, bushes and fences.

DM33 & DM43; APFSDS - The 2PL has access to 2 types of APFSDS: DM33 and DM43, both of which perform similarly against tanks at its BR, since most tanks don't have exactly 55mms more frontal armor that can be penetrated by the latter but not the former.

DM11; HE - DM11 is a new HE-TF shell found on the Rheinmetall L/44. Which can be deadly to low flying helicopters in certain situations due to the timed fuse.

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
DM12A1 HEATFS 480 480 480 480 480 480
DM11 HE-TF 37 37 37 37 37 37
DM33 APFSDS 481 478 470 461 450 440
DM43 APFSDS 536 534 528 521 514 507
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (kg) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
DM12A1 HEATFS 1,140 13.5 0.05 0.1 2.15 65° 72° 77°
DM11 HE-TF 970 19 0.3 0.1 3.93 79° 80° 81°
DM33 APFSDS 1,640 4.3 - - - 78° 80° 81°
DM43 APFSDS 1,660 4 - - - 78° 80° 81°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the Leopard 2 PL
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
42 16 (+26) 1 (+41) No

Notes:

  • Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been loaded.
  • Rack 2 is a first stage ammo rack. It totals 15 shells and gets filled first when loading up the tank.
  • This rack is also emptied early: the rack depletion order at full capacity is 2 - 1.
  • If you pack 16 (+26) shells, it will keep the frontal hull rack empty.
  • Simply not firing when the gun is loaded will move ammo from rack 1 into rack 2. Firing will interrupt the restocking of the ready racks.

Machine guns

7.62 mm MG3A1 machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition4 400 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate1 200 shots/min
7.62 mm MG3A1 machine gun
Ammunition2 000 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate1 200 shots/min
7.62 mm MG3A1
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 4,500 (1,000) 1,200 N/A N/A
Pintle 2,000 (1,000) 1,200 -8°/+20° ±120°

Usage in battles

The 2PL playstyle is identical to the 2A4 and subsequent German MBTs. However, the 2PL may be able to utilize hull down tactics more effectively due to the additional turret armor. In terms of armament, the 2PL has the powerful Rh120 L/44 which German tankers are already familiar with.

Enemies worth noting:

  • M1 Abrams: Good turret protection, but dead in the water if you fire anything at the UFP.
  • Strv 121: Hull and turret face can be penetrated by DM33.
  • Strv 122A/Strv 122B PLSS: Hull front impenetrable by DM33 unless MEXAS armour package is destroyed. Turret can be penetrated if additional composite screens are blown off
  • Leclerc/Leclerc S2: Avoid aiming at the commander side of the turret even with DM43 APFSDS.
  • Challenger 2: LFP, breech, and driver's port.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Good turret armour
  • Effective gun
  • Better APFSDS shell (DM43) than other Leopard 2A4s
  • Excellent mobility
  • Has access to 3rd generation thermals for both the gunner and commander

Cons:

  • Same turret weaknesses as the 2A4, minus the gun mantlet specifically against chemical penetrators.
  • Unreliable hull armour
  • The Leopard 2A4's typical gunner-sight optic is still present
  • DM43 APFSDS shell is lacking penetration for the battle rating

History

Devblog

The Leopard 2PL is an ongoing joint project for the modernization of the Leopard 2A4 tanks in service with the Polish army, currently being carried out by the German company Rheinmetall AG and the Polish state-owned Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa. The aim of the program is to improve the combat efficiency of the elderly Leopards to 3rd generation plus level main battle tanks.

The main areas of modernization are improving the tank's protection and firepower. The Leopard 2PL has additional modular turret armour (forehead and sides), enhanced protection of the gun mantlet. On the turret's rear, massive boxes appeared, which under some circumstances can work as spaced armour for protection against HEAT shells. The L44 cannon remains the same, but the upgraded fire control system has modern thermal imaging equipment and is adapted for firing more powerful rounds. Since the power plant and chassis of the Leopard 2A4 remained unchanged, the additional protection of the hull had to be abandoned, as the weight of the tank approached 60 tons. In total, 128 Leopard 2A4's in service are to be upgraded under the Leopard 2PL program.

Media

Skins
Images
  • Leopard 2 PL WTWallpaper 01.jpg
  • Leopard 2 PL WTWallpaper 02.jpg
  • Leopard 2 PL WTWallpaper 03.jpg
  • Leopard 2 PL WTWallpaper 04.jpg
  • Leopard 2 PL WTWallpaper 05.jpg
  • Leopard 2 PL WTWallpaper 06.jpg

See also

Related development

External links


Germany medium tanks
Pz.III  Pz.III B · Pz.III E · Pz.III F · Pz.III J · Pz.III J1 · Pz.III J1 TD · Pz.III L · Pz.III M · Pz.III N
Pz.IV  Pz.IV C · Pz.IV E · Pz.IV F1 · Pz.IV F2 · Pz.IV G · Pz.IV H · Pz.IV J · Pz.Bef.Wg.IV J
Pz.V  VK 3002 (M) · Panther A · Panther D · Panther F · Panther G · Ersatz M10 · Panther II
M48 upgrades  M48A2 G A2 · M48 Super
Leopard 1  Leopard I · Leopard A1A1 · Leopard A1A1 (L/44) · Leopard 1A5 · C2A1 · Turm III
Leopard 2  PT-16/T14 mod. · Leopard 2K · Leopard 2AV
  Leopard 2A4 · Leopard 2 (PzBtl 123) · Leopard 2A4M · Leopard 2 PL · Leopard 2A5 · Leopard 2 PSO · Leopard 2A6 · Leopard 2A7V
Trophies  ▀M4 748 (a) · ▀T 34 747 (r)
Other  Nb.Fz. · KPz-70
USA  mKPz M47 G · M48A2 C
USSR  ◊T-72M1

Squadron ground vehicles
USA  M901 · M1A1 AIM
Germany  Leopard 2 PL
USSR  BMP-2M · T-80UK
Britain  Bhishma TWMP
Japan  RCV (P)
China  Object 122MT "MC"
France  CV 9035NL
Sweden  T 80 U
Israel  Magach 6B Gal

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