PRESS RELEASE
Roll-out of the modernized Swedish LEOPARD 2: KNDS hands over first of 110 Swedish Stridsvagn 123 A
Munich, June 22, 2026 – KNDS has delivered the first of a total of 110 comprehensively modernized Stridsvagn 123 A systems (LEOPARD 2 SWE) to the Swedish procurement agency FMV. The modernization program, named REMO (Renovation Modernization), covers all Swedish LEOPARD 2 main battle tanks and will be completed in 2030. The modernization includes an increase in combat capability, a higher level of protection, digitalization measures, as well as a logistics package.
“Since decades, we have maintained a close, friendly, and trusting cooperation with Sweden, which is also reflected in this project. Sweden has made a significant contribution to the Stridsvagn 123 A main battle tank system and has been driving the development of the LEOPARD 2 for almost 30 years,” said Florian Hohenwarter, CEO of KNDS Deutschland, during a ceremonial handover event in Munich. “The Stridsvagn 123 A is clearly one of the most modern main battle tanks and is fully interoperable in all areas with all LEOPARD 2 systems.”
With its new gun (L55 A1), the Swedish LEOPARD 2 significantly increases its range and firepower. In addition, the Stridsvagn 123 A is equipped with fully digital workstations and offers the highest level of connectivity.
In autumn 2026, the Swedish army will begin training its first soldiers on the main battle tank.
Foto KNDS: LEOPARD 2 Stridsvagn 123 A; l. CEO KNDS Deutschland Florian Hohenwarter; r. Pontus Nordberg, Deputy Director Land Systems, FM
About KNDS
KNDS is a leading pan-European land defense company, uniting nearly 11,000 employees and generating €4.4 billion in revenue in 2025. With a strong order backlog of €33.1 billion as of December 31, 2025, the group delivers innovative complete mission solutions built on state-of-the art technologies. Leveraging deep industrial expertise and strong partnerships, KNDS develops open, interoperable solutions combining manned and unmanned systems, designed to meet tomorrow’s operational challenges. As a prime contractor, it provides full system-of-systems capabilities, from platforms to ammunition and services, managing the entire value chain and encompassing complete product life cycles. Born from the alliance of Nexter and Krauss-Maffei Wegmann, KNDS embodies the path toward a collective and efficient future for the sovereignty of Europe’s defense by supporting the standardization and interoperability between European and NATO forces.
Trusted by 40+ armies worldwide, including 24 European armed forces, KNDS benefits from decades of combat-proven experience. KNDS embodies a united, efficient model to enhance stability and long-term security in Europe and beyond.
Press Contact
Christian Budde
Pressesprecher / Press Officer
E-Mail: christian.budde@knds.de
T +49 89 8140 5498
M: +49 160 588 3254
