Difference between revisions of "Leclerc S2"

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{{Specs-Card|code=fr_leclerc_s2}}
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{{About
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| about = French medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
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| usage = other versions
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| link = Leclerc (Family)
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}}
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{{Specs-Card
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|code=fr_leclerc_s2
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
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}}
  
 
== 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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[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
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The '''Leclerc Séries 2''' is the second variant of the [[Leclerc (Family)|Leclerc main battle tank family]]. Nexter Systems designed and produced it with the ability to be deployed in desert regions. A total of 134 units of the [[Leclerc|Leclerc Séries 1]] were produced for service before being replaced on the assembly line in 1997 by the Leclerc Séries 2, which primarily features a hybrid air conditioner to cool the computer system as well as an independent air conditioning unit installed on the back roof behind the gunner's hatch. Other enhancements include an additional splash guard added to the front hull, a remote-operated hydraulic track tensioner, bolt-on appliqué armour on each hull sponson, and the replacement of the Athos thermal imaging equipment on the gunner's sight with the new Iris thermal imaging equipment. A total of 176 units were manufactured.
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{{Break}}
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} French medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "New Power"]].
+
Introduced in [[Update "New Power"]], the Leclerc Séries 2 is almost identical to the Leclerc Séries 1, apart from a few improvements, such as a new nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) protective system and air conditioner, which are not reflected in the game. With its high mobility and autoloader, the Leclerc Séries 2 may play a variety of roles on the battlefield. Its mobility allows it to get into advantageous positions for sniping or ambushing, and the autoloader allows for quick responses and follow-up shots against enemies. Its survivability is best when hull down from a hill, as most of its vulnerable areas, except the tank gun breech, are effectively hidden. Avoid close-range combat because the numerous hull weak points are visible and targetable in urban environments.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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 Leclerc S2 is virtually the same inside as the S1, excluding a few upgrades not functional in-game, such as a new NBC protection system and air conditioner. The turret cheeks (>600 mm KE) are well protected, with the middle glacis plate providing 720 mm chemical and 550 mm kinetic protection. The flat plate below the gunner's thermal optic provides 500 mm of protection against KE.
  
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
+
! Armour !! Front !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Hull || ___ mm || ___ mm ''Top'' <br> ___ mm ''Bottom'' || ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
+
| Hull || Upper Glacis: 140-300  mm APFSDS sloped at 77 degrees || 30-65 mm ''Front''<br> 20-55 mm ''Back'' || 10-20 mm || 5-25mm
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Turret || ___ - ___ mm ''Turret front'' <br> ___ mm ''Gun mantlet'' || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
+
| Turret || 600-800 mm APFSDS ''Turret cheeks''<br> 500 mm APFSDS / 570 mm HEAT ''Gunner's optic''
 +
| 180+mm APFSDS, 230+mm HEAT || Ammo storage: 45mm APFSDS, 270 mm HEAT (with integrated ERA blocks)
 +
Turret back: 20 mm
 +
| 20-40 mm
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Cupola || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm
+
| Cannon || 90-460 mm against APFSDS || N/A || N/A || N/A
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
'''Notes:''' <!-- Any additional notes which the user needs to be aware of -->
+
=== Mobility ===
−
<!-- Example: * Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick, tracks are 30 mm thick, and torsion bars are 60 mm thick. -->
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{{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.'' -->
  
−
=== Mobility ===
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{{tankMobility|abMinHp=2,325|rbMinHp=1,327}}
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<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->{{tankMobility|abMinHp=2285|rbMinHp=1304}}
+
 
 +
The Leclerc S2 is powered by the same engine as the S1, the Wärtsilä V8X-1500. Outputting 1,500 hp and using a special gas turbine turbocharger (which can also act as the vehicle's APU, and eliminating turbo lag), the Leclerc S2 has great mobility for its class at 26.69 hp/ton. However, it weighs 2.5t more than the S1, which makes for noticeable sluggishness without engine upgrades.
 +
 
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
{{main|GIAT CN120-26 F1 (120 mm)}}
 
{{main|GIAT CN120-26 F1 (120 mm)}}
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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.''
+
 
 +
Like its predecessor, the Leclerc S2 is equipped with the CN120-26 F1 L/52 cannon. It can fire three shells: a stock HEATFS round, and two APFSDS shells. The OFL 120 F1, which shares the same penetrator as the DM43, slices through over 550 mm of armour past 1 km. Although this isn't as competitive as some contemporaries, it still performs very well against enemy MBTs. The 120 F1 shell also has a velocity of 1,790 m/s which makes for very good ballistics and low bullet drop. Although powerful, the 120 F1 round is a Tier IV modification; like most other MBTs, the Leclerc starts out with a stock HEATFS shell. Although powerful against light vehicles and SPAA, the HEATFS is redundant against your opponents. You have an APFSDS shell as a Tier I modification, however, one must note that it penetrates only 425 mm of armour even at close range.
 +
 
 +
Unlike most of its Western contemporaries (excluding the [[Type 90]] and the [[CV 90120]]), the Leclerc S2 is equipped with an autoloader. This gives it a steady rate of fire of 6 seconds, tied with an aced crew level of the M1A2 Abrams and the Leopard 2. This gives it great follow-up shot potential out of the box without the need for crew upgrading. Also equipped with powerful thermals for the gunner, the Leclerc can pick off unsuspecting targets with great efficiency.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | [[GIAT CN120-26 F1 (120 mm)|120 mm GIAT CN120-26 F1]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
+
! colspan="5" | [[GIAT CN120-26 F1 (120 mm)|120 mm GIAT CN120-26 F1]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || Reloading rate (seconds)
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
 
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
 
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
 
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
−
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
+
! Autoloader
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
−
| rowspan="2" | 40 || rowspan="2" | -8°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || rowspan="2" | 6.00 || rowspan="2" | 6.00 || rowspan="2" | 6.00 || rowspan="2" | 6.00
+
| rowspan="2" | 40 || rowspan="2" | -8°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 38.1 || 52.7 || 64.0 || 70.8 || 75.3 || rowspan="2" | 5.00
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
−
| __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
+
| 23.8 || 28.0 || 34.0 || 37.6 || 40.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
{{:GIAT CN120-26 F1 (120 mm)/Ammunition|OCC 120 G1, OFL 120 G1, OFL 120 F1}}
−
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
 
−
|-
 
−
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
 
−
|-
 
−
|OCC 120 G1||HEATFS||480||480||480||480||480||480
 
−
|-
 
−
|OFL 120 G1||APFSDS||394||393||388||382||376||370
 
−
|-
 
−
|OFL 120 F1||APFSDS||575||573||565||557||547||537
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
−
! colspan="10" | Shell details
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Velocity<br>(m/s)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Projectile<br>Mass (kg)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay<br>(m)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity<br>(mm)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass<br>(TNT equivalent) (g)
 
−
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
 
−
|-
 
−
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
 
−
|-
 
−
|OCC 120 G1||HEATFS||1,100||14.4||0.0||0.1||2,148||65°||72°||77°
 
−
|-
 
−
|OFL 120 G1||APFSDS||1,650||3.8||N/A||N/A||N/A||78°||80°||81°
 
−
|-
 
−
|OFL 120 F1||APFSDS||1,790||3.8||N/A||N/A||N/A||78°||80°||81°
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
−
<!-- [[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]] -->
+
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}. Bustle ammo rack is behind blast doors. Hull ammo rack is inside fuel tank.]]
−
<!-- '''Last updated: 2.1.0.18''' -->
+
<!-- '''Last updated: 2.3.0.64''' -->
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
Line 99: Line 85:
 
! 1st<br>rack empty
 
! 1st<br>rack empty
 
! 2nd<br>rack empty
 
! 2nd<br>rack empty
−
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 
−
! 4th<br>rack empty
 
−
! 5th<br>rack empty
 
−
! 6th<br>rack empty
 
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''40''' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __
+
| '''40''' || 23 ''(+17)'' || 1 ''(+39)'' || No
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
'''Note''':
 +
 +
* Hull stowage empty: 23 ''(+17)'' shells.
  
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
 
<!-- ''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.'' -->
 
{{main|M2HB (12.7 mm)}}
 
{{main|M2HB (12.7 mm)}}
 +
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
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! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
|-
 
|-
−
|Coaxial||800 (200)||576||N/A||N/A
+
| Coaxial || 800 (200) || 575 || - || -
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''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).'' -->
−
''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).''
+
With great mobility and an autoloading 120 mm cannon, the Leclerc can be exploited to fulfil a number of roles on the battlefield. Mobility enables it to get into competitive spots for sniping or ambushing, and the gun's performance enables quick response and follow-up shots to any enemy that appears. Its survivability is best while hull down or poking out from a hill, as most of its vulnerable areas excluding the cannon breech (and sometimes the LFP when poking out from cover) are hidden well enough. Try to avoid close quarters combat (CQC) as the Leclerc's numerous hull weak spots can be easily seen and targeted in urban environments. If CQC is inevitable (i.e. Rhine, Sweden, Novorossiysk), then the Leclerc can be used to ambush distracted tanks and poke out of cover. When shot at or damaged, use your smoke grenades to retreat into cover. 14 smoke grenades give two separate discharges, or if discharged all at once, provide 360 degrees of smoke for you to retreat behind.
−
 
 
−
=== Modules ===
 
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Mobility
 
−
! Protection
 
−
! colspan="2" | Firepower
 
−
!
 
−
|-
 
−
|I
 
−
|Tracks
 
−
|
 
−
|Parts
 
−
|Horizontal Drive
 
−
|OFL 120 G1
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
|II
 
−
|Suspension
 
−
|Brake System
 
−
|FPE
 
−
|Adjustment of Fire
 
−
|
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
|III
 
−
|Filters
 
−
|
 
−
|Crew Replenishment
 
−
|Elevation Mechanism
 
−
|Laser rangefinder
 
−
|Smoke grenade
 
−
|-
 
−
|IV
 
−
|Transmission
 
−
|Engine
 
−
|
 
−
|Artillery Support
 
−
|OFL 120 F1
 
−
|NVD
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
−
''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".''
 
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
*
+
* The OFL 120 F1 APFSDS round is effective
 +
* Autoloader allows for consistent reloads
 +
* Competitive mobility and great reverse speed
 +
* Has 2nd generation thermals for the gunner
 +
* Large first-stage ammo stowage
 +
* Lower profile compared to its contemporaries
 +
* Relatively fast gun elevation/depression speeds
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
*
+
* No thermal optics for commander
 +
* Noticeable weak spots at close range or when not hull down
 +
* Cannon breech is easy to hit at any range
 +
* 10 mm armour protection for the engine: 12.7 mm rounds can set afire and immobilize you
 +
* Only three crew members
 +
* Abysmal performance when stock
 +
* Heavier than the Leclerc S1 - slightly reduced mobility and acceleration
 +
* The mantlet can easily be penetrated, even by lower tier guns and at distance - the mantlet is hard to hide
 +
* Lower frontal plate does not have any composites, meaning a penetration on the front is mostly incapacitating or downright lethal
 +
* Slower than average turret traverse rate
  
 
== 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).'' -->
−
''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).''
+
The Leclerc Série 2 Tranche 6 was the 9th version of the Leclerc (counting prototypes) which had minor improvements compared to the previous Leclerc Série 1 Tranche 2-5. It featured an increase on the commander's optic periscope armour to STANAG 3. An air conditioner was added, as well as lockable baskets and boxes on the turret's bustle. A wave deflector was added at the frontal plate, as well as addition of one piece rubber plating on side skirts. Later models of the S2, more specifically the Leclerc S2T9, were retrofitted with V5 tracks instead of V2 tracks as well as a new General Purpose Sight (gunner's optics) at the end of their life service in order to standardise them for further Leclerc Série 3 also known as SXXI.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
−
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
+
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=fr_leclerc_s2 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|aIdifrVolXY|'''Lethal Leclerc: Leclerc S2 Review''' - ''Sako Sniper''|I55DedeKDdg|'''Leclerc S2 - Fantastic 4K French Performance''' - ''Napalmratte''|4WFrgIeVpvk|'''The Balanced Baguette S2 - Leclerc S2''' - ''JustinPlaysYT''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 192: Line 157:
 
* ''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.'' -->
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
  
−
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
+
;Related development
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
* [[Leclerc (Family)]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
Line 206: Line 170:
 
* ''other literature.''
 
* ''other literature.''
  
 +
{{TankManufacturer Nexter}}
 
{{France medium tanks}}
 
{{France medium tanks}}

Latest revision as of 09:25, 13 July 2024

This page is about the French medium tank Leclerc S2. For other versions, see Leclerc (Family).
Leclerc S2
fr_leclerc_s2.png
GarageImage Leclerc S2.jpg
ArtImage Leclerc S2.jpg
Leclerc S2
France flag.png France
VIII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
12.0 12.0 12.0
Class:
Research:200 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:1 100 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png

Description

The Leclerc Séries 2 is the second variant of the Leclerc main battle tank family. Nexter Systems designed and produced it with the ability to be deployed in desert regions. A total of 134 units of the Leclerc Séries 1 were produced for service before being replaced on the assembly line in 1997 by the Leclerc Séries 2, which primarily features a hybrid air conditioner to cool the computer system as well as an independent air conditioning unit installed on the back roof behind the gunner's hatch. Other enhancements include an additional splash guard added to the front hull, a remote-operated hydraulic track tensioner, bolt-on appliqué armour on each hull sponson, and the replacement of the Athos thermal imaging equipment on the gunner's sight with the new Iris thermal imaging equipment. A total of 176 units were manufactured.

Introduced in Update "New Power", the Leclerc Séries 2 is almost identical to the Leclerc Séries 1, apart from a few improvements, such as a new nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) protective system and air conditioner, which are not reflected in the game. With its high mobility and autoloader, the Leclerc Séries 2 may play a variety of roles on the battlefield. Its mobility allows it to get into advantageous positions for sniping or ambushing, and the autoloader allows for quick responses and follow-up shots against enemies. Its survivability is best when hull down from a hill, as most of its vulnerable areas, except the tank gun breech, are effectively hidden. Avoid close-range combat because the numerous hull weak points are visible and targetable in urban environments.

General info

Survivability and armour

ERA
Effective action against the cumulative ammunition
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 / 35 / 20
Turret90 / 90 / 20
Crew3 people
Visibility90 %

The Leclerc S2 is virtually the same inside as the S1, excluding a few upgrades not functional in-game, such as a new NBC protection system and air conditioner. The turret cheeks (>600 mm KE) are well protected, with the middle glacis plate providing 720 mm chemical and 550 mm kinetic protection. The flat plate below the gunner's thermal optic provides 500 mm of protection against KE.

Armour Front Sides Rear Roof
Hull Upper Glacis: 140-300 mm APFSDS sloped at 77 degrees 30-65 mm Front
20-55 mm Back 		10-20 mm 5-25mm
Turret 600-800 mm APFSDS Turret cheeks
500 mm APFSDS / 570 mm HEAT Gunner's optic 		180+mm APFSDS, 230+mm HEAT Ammo storage: 45mm APFSDS, 270 mm HEAT (with integrated ERA blocks)

Turret back: 20 mm

20-40 mm
Cannon 90-460 mm against APFSDS N/A N/A N/A

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB80 / 42 km/h
RB and SB72 / 38 km/h
Number of gears10 forward
4 back
Weight56.2 t
Engine power
AB2 862 hp
RB and SB1 500 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB50.9 hp/t
RB and SB26.7 hp/t
Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 80 42 56.2 2,325 2,862 41.37 50.93
Realistic 72 38 1,327 1,500 23.61 26.69

The Leclerc S2 is powered by the same engine as the S1, the Wärtsilä V8X-1500. Outputting 1,500 hp and using a special gas turbine turbocharger (which can also act as the vehicle's APU, and eliminating turbo lag), the Leclerc S2 has great mobility for its class at 26.69 hp/ton. However, it weighs 2.5t more than the S1, which makes for noticeable sluggishness without engine upgrades.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB4 712 → 7 011 Sl icon.png
RB4 567 → 6 795 Sl icon.png
SB5 780 → 8 600 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications287 700 Rp icon.png
483 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost3 200 Ge icon.png
Crew training310 000 Sl icon.png
Experts1 100 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 300 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 350 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
160 / 200 / 210 % Sl icon.png
256 / 256 / 256 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
21 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
32 000 Sl icon.png
430 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
18 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
28 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
18 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
28 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
24 000 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
410 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
20 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
31 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
6 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
32 000 Sl icon.png
430 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
5 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
28 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement fr.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
24 000 Sl icon.png
330 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
21 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
32 000 Sl icon.png
430 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
18 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
28 000 Sl icon.png
370 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
24 000 Sl icon.png
330 Ge icon.png
Mods tank laser rangefinder.png
Laser rangefinder
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
24 000 Sl icon.png
330 Ge icon.png
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
24 000 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
410 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
120mm_NATO_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
20 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
31 000 Sl icon.png
410 Ge icon.png
Mods thermal sight.png
NVD
Research:
20 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
31 000 Sl icon.png
410 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 GIAT CN120-26 F1 cannon
Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Autoloader
Automatically feeds projectiles into the breech. The speed does not depend on the skills of the loader
Ammunition40 rounds
First-order22 rounds
Reload5.0 s
Vertical guidance-8° / 20°
Main article: GIAT CN120-26 F1 (120 mm)

Like its predecessor, the Leclerc S2 is equipped with the CN120-26 F1 L/52 cannon. It can fire three shells: a stock HEATFS round, and two APFSDS shells. The OFL 120 F1, which shares the same penetrator as the DM43, slices through over 550 mm of armour past 1 km. Although this isn't as competitive as some contemporaries, it still performs very well against enemy MBTs. The 120 F1 shell also has a velocity of 1,790 m/s which makes for very good ballistics and low bullet drop. Although powerful, the 120 F1 round is a Tier IV modification; like most other MBTs, the Leclerc starts out with a stock HEATFS shell. Although powerful against light vehicles and SPAA, the HEATFS is redundant against your opponents. You have an APFSDS shell as a Tier I modification, however, one must note that it penetrates only 425 mm of armour even at close range.

Unlike most of its Western contemporaries (excluding the Type 90 and the CV 90120), the Leclerc S2 is equipped with an autoloader. This gives it a steady rate of fire of 6 seconds, tied with an aced crew level of the M1A2 Abrams and the Leopard 2. This gives it great follow-up shot potential out of the box without the need for crew upgrading. Also equipped with powerful thermals for the gunner, the Leclerc can pick off unsuspecting targets with great efficiency.

120 mm GIAT CN120-26 F1 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Autoloader
Arcade 40 -8°/+20° ±180° Two-plane 38.1 52.7 64.0 70.8 75.3 5.00
Realistic 23.8 28.0 34.0 37.6 40.0

Ammunition

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
OCC 120 G1 HEATFS 480 480 480 480 480 480
OFL 120 G1 APFSDS 425 423 417 410 404 396
OFL 120 F1 APFSDS 575 573 565 557 547 537
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%
OCC 120 G1 HEATFS 1,100 14.4 0.05 0.1 2.15 65° 72° 77°
OFL 120 G1 APFSDS 1,780 3.8 - - - 78° 80° 81°
OFL 120 F1 APFSDS 1,790 3.8 - - - 78° 80° 81°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the Leclerc S2. Bustle ammo rack is behind blast doors. Hull ammo rack is inside fuel tank.
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
40 23 (+17) 1 (+39) No

Note:

  • Hull stowage empty: 23 (+17) shells.

Machine guns

12.7 mm CRC F1 machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition800 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reload8.0 s
Fire rate575 shots/min
Main article: M2HB (12.7 mm)
12.7 mm M2HB
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 800 (200) 575 - -

Usage in battles

With great mobility and an autoloading 120 mm cannon, the Leclerc can be exploited to fulfil a number of roles on the battlefield. Mobility enables it to get into competitive spots for sniping or ambushing, and the gun's performance enables quick response and follow-up shots to any enemy that appears. Its survivability is best while hull down or poking out from a hill, as most of its vulnerable areas excluding the cannon breech (and sometimes the LFP when poking out from cover) are hidden well enough. Try to avoid close quarters combat (CQC) as the Leclerc's numerous hull weak spots can be easily seen and targeted in urban environments. If CQC is inevitable (i.e. Rhine, Sweden, Novorossiysk), then the Leclerc can be used to ambush distracted tanks and poke out of cover. When shot at or damaged, use your smoke grenades to retreat into cover. 14 smoke grenades give two separate discharges, or if discharged all at once, provide 360 degrees of smoke for you to retreat behind.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • The OFL 120 F1 APFSDS round is effective
  • Autoloader allows for consistent reloads
  • Competitive mobility and great reverse speed
  • Has 2nd generation thermals for the gunner
  • Large first-stage ammo stowage
  • Lower profile compared to its contemporaries
  • Relatively fast gun elevation/depression speeds

Cons:

  • No thermal optics for commander
  • Noticeable weak spots at close range or when not hull down
  • Cannon breech is easy to hit at any range
  • 10 mm armour protection for the engine: 12.7 mm rounds can set afire and immobilize you
  • Only three crew members
  • Abysmal performance when stock
  • Heavier than the Leclerc S1 - slightly reduced mobility and acceleration
  • The mantlet can easily be penetrated, even by lower tier guns and at distance - the mantlet is hard to hide
  • Lower frontal plate does not have any composites, meaning a penetration on the front is mostly incapacitating or downright lethal
  • Slower than average turret traverse rate

History

The Leclerc Série 2 Tranche 6 was the 9th version of the Leclerc (counting prototypes) which had minor improvements compared to the previous Leclerc Série 1 Tranche 2-5. It featured an increase on the commander's optic periscope armour to STANAG 3. An air conditioner was added, as well as lockable baskets and boxes on the turret's bustle. A wave deflector was added at the frontal plate, as well as addition of one piece rubber plating on side skirts. Later models of the S2, more specifically the Leclerc S2T9, were retrofitted with V5 tracks instead of V2 tracks as well as a new General Purpose Sight (gunner's optics) at the end of their life service in order to standardise them for further Leclerc Série 3 also known as SXXI.

Media

Skins
Videos
Lethal Leclerc: Leclerc S2 Review - Sako Sniper
Leclerc S2 - Fantastic 4K French Performance - Napalmratte
The Balanced Baguette S2 - Leclerc S2 - JustinPlaysYT

See also

Related development

External links

Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:

  • topic on the official game forum;
  • other literature.


Nexter Systems*
MBTs  Leclerc · Leclerc S2 · Leclerc SXXI
  *GIAT Industries became Nexter Systems in 2006

France medium tanks
M4 Derivatives  M4A1 (FL10) · M4A4 (SA50)
AMX-50  AMX M4 · AMX-50 (TOA100) · AMX-50 (TO90/930)
AMX-30  AMX-30 · AMX-30 (1972) · AMX-30B2 · AMX-30B2 BRENUS · AMX-30 ACRA · AMX-30 Super
AMX-32/40  AMX-32 · AMX-32 (105) · AMX-40
Leclerc  Leclerc · Leclerc S2 · Leclerc SXXI · Leclerc AZUR
Other  D2 · S.35 · Lorraine 40t
Germany  Panther "Dauphiné"
USA  ▄M4A1 · ▄M4A3 (105) · ▄M4A4 · ▄M26

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