Pz 87 WE Leopard 2

The Pz 87 WE Leopard 2 (Werterhaltung) is the most modern version of the Pz 87. The first 2 prototypes were completed in 2003 and featured new armor packages, sighting equipment and Remote Weapon Station. However the actual Pz 87 WE did not recieve the full upgrades offered by Swiss Defence Company Ruag.

Instead its Battlefield management and communications capabilities were upgraded as well as a new Commanders Independent Sight installed. There are references to a new thermal imager, but is most likely only for the CIS. All work was carried out by Ruag.

In 2013 the final Pz 87 WE of the 134 upgraded was delivered to the Swiss Army by Ruag. The Pz 87 WE early prototypes were later developed into the new Leopard 2 Mid-Life, currently marketed by Ruag.

: Early Pz 87 WE Leopard 2 Prototype

: Early Pz 87 WE Leopard 2 Prototype

Pz 87 WE Leopard 2 Tank Specifications

Firepower
Main Gun	Rheinmetall L44 – 120mm, calibre Length 44 smoothbore Elevation -9 to +20
Secondary Weapons	x1 coaxial 7.5mm MG, x1 7.5mm MG
Ammunition Storage	x42 120mm, x4,750 7.5mm
Mobility
Engine	MTU Mb 873 ka 501, turbocharged 1500hp Diesel
Transmission	RENK HSWL 354, 4 speed forward/2 reverse
Top Road Speed	68 km/h
Road Range	550km
Fuel Capacity	1160 litres
Vertical Obstacle	1.1m
Water Capability	1m (4m with Snorkel)
Trench Crossing	3m
Gradient	60%
Side Slope	30%
Dimensions
Length Gun Forward	9.67m
Length Hull	7.72m
Width	3.75m (with side front hull armor)
Height	2.48m (roof top)
Ground Clearance	0.54m
Weight	55,000kg aka 55 tonne combat
Protection
NBC Protected	Yes
Armor Type	Steel/Tungsten/Modular/
Active Protection Systems	No
Crew
Commander	Yes
Gunner	Yes
Loader	Yes
Driver	Yes
Additional Crew	—
Troops Carried	N/A