The European Defence landscape has marked a powerful inflection point with the official launch of the “Technologies for Existing and Future Main Battle Tanks” (FMBTech) initiative.
Headed by Thales and backed under the European Defence Fund (EDF 2023 edition), this tri-annual program comprises a strategic alliance of 26 defense industry leaders and research institutions spanning 13 EU Member States and Norway.
The project aims to create flexible and advanced technologies for Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) that can adapt to the changing needs of modern warfare.
5th-gen main battle tank
The €19 million venture seeks to resolve operational obsolescence within the EU’s legacy MBT fleets while laying the groundwork for an interoperable fifth-generation capability.
FMBTech seeks to improve military vehicles’ survivability, firepower, and communication capabilities using modular “technology bricks.”
This approach gives a strong advantage in challenging and intense conflict zones.
FMBTech also represents Europe’s shift towards a more unified and future-ready defense strategy.
The program underscores the EDF’s mission through cross-national industrial cooperation: advancing pan-European defense interoperability and innovation, deliberately emphasizing SMEs and RTOs to accelerate disruptive capability maturation.
Among the participating entities are combat-proven stalwarts and research centers, including KNDS, Arquus, Safran, Hensoldt, France, and Finland’s VTT.
Of particular note is KNDS’ role, which remains central to Europe’s heavy armor roadmap.
As the current leader in European MBT platforms, via its Leopard 2 A8 and Leclerc XLR, KNDS continues to bridge operational demands with next-generation systems.
Futuristic technologies
Recently, KNDS showcased its strategic triad of MBT development, which unfolds in three progressive phases. This triad provides a potential look at what future MBT may look like.
The Leopard 2 A8 and Leclerc XLR represent the backbone of today’s battle-tested military technology.
These platforms have been enhanced with upgraded armor, next-generation sensors, and C4I improvements.
The A8 variant stands out for its strong performance on the battlefield. It provides the highest level of protection, helps soldiers understand their surroundings with AI, and connects fully to digital battlefield systems.
Meanwhile, the Leclerc XLR modernization program updates the French Army’s tanks. It aims to improve their safety and communication to meet immediate needs.
The Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0 and Leclerc Evolution are noteworthy platforms in the transitional category.
Both are equipped with advanced modular turrets that can seamlessly switch between 120mm and 140mm ASCALON main guns.
The Leclerc Evolution is further distinguished by its innovative four-crew layout, which includes a dedicated sensor-effectors suite manager integrated into the chassis, optimizing its response to counter-UAV and loitering munitions threats.
Meanwhile, the A-RC 3.0 variant adopts a fully unmanned turret, enhancing its capabilities with autoloading systems, a secondary 30mm armament, and ATGM capabilities.
The EMBT ADT 140 Demonstrator is a significant leap forward in the future Main Ground Combat System (MGCS).
Featuring an ASCALON 140mm remotely operated turret, this demonstrator is poised to showcase a new level of firepower and automation.
Scheduled for live-fire demonstrations in 2025, the EMBT encapsulates KNDS’ vision for AI integration, hybrid propulsion, cyber resilience, and advanced sensor fusion.
Geopolitical tensions show the need for military readiness and advanced technology. The FMBTech initiative, led by KNDS, highlights the EU’s commitment to being self-reliant and resilient in defense.
In the coming decade, Europe’s next-generation main battle tanks (MBTs) will likely play an important role in the continent’s ability to deter threats and project power.
