Panther KF51 MBT

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Photo Credit: RHEINMETALL

Core Concept

  • First-of-its-kind MBT, not constrained by legacy technology
  • Designed for maximum lethality, integrated survivability, and full digitisation
  • Enables reduced crew size, uncrewed turret options, and Human-Machine Teaming

Lethality

  • 130mm Future Gun System (FGS) with unrivalled overmatch capability
  • Optimised sensor-to-shooter links for rapid engagements
  • HERO 120 loitering ammunition for non-line-of-sight strikes
  • Multiple Remote Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS) options for drone and proximity defence

Digitisation

  • Fully digital NGVA architecture
  • Compliance with NGVA standard enables automation and decision support
  • Seamless integration of sensors, weapons, and crew stations
  • Software-defined tank with collaborative combat capabilities

Protection & Survivability

  • Integrated survivability concept combining active, reactive, and passive measures
  • Pre-shot detection capability to strike first
  • Rheinmetall TAPS (Top Attack Protection System) An active defense sensor system to detect and engage top-attack threats before impact. 
  • ROSY smoke obscurance system integrated with digital architecture
  • Active KE protection without added weight
  • Mine protection and cyber hardening for contested environments

Main Armament

  • 130mm L52 smoothbore gun
  • Elevation range: –9° to +20°
  • Digital turret drive and stabilisation system
  • Next-generation KE munition and programmable HE munition

Secondary Armament

  • 12.7mm coaxial machine gun (250 ready rounds)
  • Natter RCWS: 7.62mm RMG, 2,500 ready rounds, –15° to +85° elevation
  • HERO120 loitering munitions: 4 units, modular mission option

Fire Control & Sights

  • SEOSS2 commander’s sight: multi-spectral camera, laser range finder
  • EMES (Electro-Optical Main Sight): The main sight for the gunner, featuring stabilized daylight, IR optics, and an integrated laser rangefinder, allowing independent target engagement.
  • Fully digitised fire control computer enabling hunter-killer and killer-killer operations

Autoloader

  • Holds up to 20 ready rounds
  • High firing rate with unloading and re-stocking capability
  • Fully automated ammunition handling system

Mobility

  • Combat weight: <59 tonnes
  • Range: >500 km
  • Fits AMovP-4L tunnel profile without preparation
  • Superior tactical and strategic mobility

Collaborative Combat

  • Software-defined communication systems integrated with modern BMS
  • Cross-platform sensor-to-shooter links
  • Control of uncrewed aerial systems, loitering ammunition, and ground vehicles
  • Human-Machine Teaming with wingman UGVs for platoon-level defence

Crew & Workstations

  • Standard crew of 3: Driver, Gunner, Commander
  • Optional 4th station: company commander, drone operator, or wingman pilot
  • Fully digitised NGVA crew stations with seamless task handover
  • Turret and weapons control accessible from chassis-based stations
  • Future upgrades planned for uncrewed turrets and remotely operated Panthers

Crew Stations

  • Commander’s Crew Station
  • Gunner’s Crew Station
  • Driver’s Crew Station
  • Specialist Crew Station (optional)


Popular News

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