Prototype History: The Leopard (or Leopard 1) is a main battle tank designed and produced in West Germany that first entered service in 1965. Developed in an era when HEAT warheads were thought to make conventional heavy armour of limited value, the Leopard focused on firepower in the form of the German-built version of the British L7 105-mm gun, and improved cross-country performance that was unmatched by other designs of the era.
The design started as a collaborative project during the 1950s between West Germany and France, and later joined by Italy, but the partnership ended shortly after and the final design was ordered by the Bundeswehr, with full-scale production starting in 1965. In total, 6,485 Leopard tanks have been built, of which 4,744 were battle tanks and 1,741 were utility and anti-aircraft variants, not including 80 prototypes and pre-series vehicles.
The Leopard quickly became a standard of European forces, and eventually served as the main battle tank in over a dozen countries worldwide. Since 1990, the Leopard 1 has gradually been relegated to secondary roles in most armies. In the German Army, the Leopard 1 MBTs were phased out in 2003, while Leopard 1 derived vehicles are still widely used. The Leopard 2 MBTs have taken over the MBT role. Leopard hulls have been re-used in a wide variety of roles.
The design started as a collaborative project during the 1950s between West Germany and France, and later joined by Italy, but the partnership ended shortly after and the final design was ordered by the Bundeswehr, with full-scale production starting in 1965. In total, 6,485 Leopard tanks have been built, of which 4,744 were battle tanks and 1,741 were utility and anti-aircraft variants, not including 80 prototypes and pre-series vehicles.
The Leopard quickly became a standard of European forces, and eventually served as the main battle tank in over a dozen countries worldwide. Since 1990, the Leopard 1 has gradually been relegated to secondary roles in most armies. In the German Army, the Leopard 1 MBTs were phased out in 2003, while Leopard 1 derived vehicles are still widely used. The Leopard 2 MBTs have taken over the MBT role. Leopard hulls have been re-used in a wide variety of roles.
Brand/Importer Information: Artitec is a young, dynamic company in the world of model making. But don't let our fresh faces fool you: we offer years of experience making high quality scale models for architects, museums, and hobbyists. Being enthusiastic modellers ourselves, we strive on developing new approaches to improve the art of modelling.
At Artitec, we value both the "tried and true" and cutting edge technology, offering you a unique combination of advanced CAD/CAM technology with a traditional, experienced "feel" for detail and finishing. The result? The highest standard in model kits. Whether you desire a model of a different time period or from a distant country, ARTITEC can deliver it to you.
Each Artitec Model Kit is a perfect blend of an old-fashioned eye for detail and state of the art technology. Expert tips on assembling, painting, and weathering are included in each kit to help ensure your model is the very best it can be. Our instructions are available in a variety of languages.
If you're looking for an authentic, accurate, and detailed model to liven up your scenery, look no further.
At Artitec, we value both the "tried and true" and cutting edge technology, offering you a unique combination of advanced CAD/CAM technology with a traditional, experienced "feel" for detail and finishing. The result? The highest standard in model kits. Whether you desire a model of a different time period or from a distant country, ARTITEC can deliver it to you.
Each Artitec Model Kit is a perfect blend of an old-fashioned eye for detail and state of the art technology. Expert tips on assembling, painting, and weathering are included in each kit to help ensure your model is the very best it can be. Our instructions are available in a variety of languages.
If you're looking for an authentic, accurate, and detailed model to liven up your scenery, look no further.
Item created by: CNW400 on 2024-06-22 09:24:27
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