Arrival of Leopard 2 to LdSH(RC)

Captain Alastair McMurachy

 

The Strathcona’s are now the proud owners of 14 Leopard 2A4Ms, perhaps one of the finest main battle tanks in the world.  The arrival sent a wave of excitement through the Regiment and the Brigade, as it meant the Canadian Forces saw the tangible results of the Government of Canada’s decision to purchase and upgrade the Leopard C2 tank, in service since 1977.  LdSH(RC) will expect to receive 42 Leopard 2s over the coming months, broken down into three different variants: Leopard 2A4M, Leopard 2A4 CAN and the Leopard 2A6M.

Equipped with a L44 smooth-bore 120mm cannon, two machine guns, and a weight of 62.5 tonnes, the Leopard 2A4M dwarfs its predecessor, the Leopard C2. With a 1500 HP engine, the Leopard 2 is an incredibly fast main battle tank for its size and its cannon is exceptionally accurate.  With increased mine protection focussed on crew survivability, the Leopard 2 is a superb addition to the Canadian Army’s combined arms team.  It will dutifully serve to protect the lives of Canada’s frontline soldiers and enhance the capabilities of the Canadian Forces.

Further, an info sheet has been provided that illustrates the specifications of the three variants of Leopard 2 that we will soon operate on behalf of the Canadian Army.