![]() ![]() Rheinmetall probably wanted to get the Panther in front of potential European buyers as the war in Ukraine grinds on. The tank’s unveiling prompted some speculation: Will it replace the Leopard 2, or is the Panther meant for export only? The Leopard 2 is also in use by at least 18 countries, and many of the partners are NATO members. The Panther met the public at the Eurosatory defense exhibit in Paris on June 13. This main battle tank was the main crowd-pleaser at a military hardware show in Europe this week. The tank has advanced armor and a formidable 130mm gun. Rheinmetall just unveiled its KF51 Panther. Its upcoming main battle tank will be made available for sales to foreign clients, and it may someday replace the Leopard 2 in Germany itself. There are over 20 versions of the tank, so it can be adapted to almost any type of combat service.Why the KF51 Panther could be one impressive tank – Germany is bringing more firepower to its tank program. One thing the Ukrainian forces do not have in abundance is time. The Abrams is also complicated to operate and requires extensive training. The Abrams is operated by an engine that uses jet fuel, which some experts believe makes it a poor weapon to send to Ukraine. Almost 1,800 were used in the liberation of Kuwait, Desert Shield and Desert Storm. It has been used extensively in battle since then. ( Click here for 30 inventions that shaped military history.) ![]() Based on a recent analysis, these tanks cost about $9 million to build. The tank is effective enough that, even in small numbers, it could make a significant difference as the Ukrainian military tries to hold against a possible Russian push this spring. Very few of these may be sent to Ukraine. Almost 10,000 are in operation worldwide. The United States has 4,400 Abrams tanks. ![]()
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