French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu and his German counterpart Boris Pistorius formalized their commitment to jointly develop the MGCS. This new system is intended to replace the German Leopard 2 tanks and the French Leclerc tanks by 2040. The agreement was signed during a ceremony in Paris, emphasizing the unified approach of both nations towards modernizing their military capabilities.
The MGCS is envisioned as more than just a tank; it is a comprehensive combat system that incorporates manned and unmanned vehicles, utilizing drones for protection and equipped with cutting-edge technology like artificial intelligence and laser weaponry. The design aims to create a highly advanced armored platform that significantly enhances ground warfare capabilities.
Main Ground Combat System 🇩🇪🇫🇷#HENSOLDT’s vision for #MGCS –
Game changer for armoured vehicles
Via @FeWoessner— Dana Levi דנה🇮🇱🇺🇸🇬🇧 (@Danale) February 8, 2021
The project, equally funded by both countries, is managed under German leadership. Defense contractors such as KNDS, Rheinmetall, and Thales are likely participants in constructing various components of the MGCS. The industrial effort is divided into eight “pillars,” including platform, firepower, connectivity, and protection, ensuring a balanced contribution between French and German industries.
The ministers have outlined an ambitious plan to finalize contracts with manufacturers by the end of the year, with hopes to develop an initial demonstrator soon. This phase marks a crucial step forward after previous delays and disagreements that had stalled the project’s progress since its inception in 2017.
MGCS program, or Main Ground Combat System, coming to Europe in 2040 pic.twitter.com/8SH53yWOEo
— GWAR69 🇩🇰🇺🇦 (@GwarWorin) September 23, 2023
This project not only symbolizes a deepened military cooperation between France and Germany but also positions them as leaders in military technology in Europe. The MGCS is expected to set a new standard in armored warfare and reflects a strategic response to the evolving security landscape, characterized by increasing threats and technological advancements.
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