Europe’s next-generation tank crawls forward and adopts a proven process
The MGCS will provide a range of potential roles including C4/reconnaissance, long-range fires, MBT and light gun. (Image: Hensoldt)
The Franco-German Main Ground Combat System (MGCS) is ambitious and is using a procurement system which has had some success in the continent’s aircraft purchasing processes with a separate company established and subsystems identified.
The MGCS programme is a major undertaking to replace the main battle tanks (MBTs) of two of Europe’s largest militaries in France and Germany and is almost definitely set to bring in a third in Italy.
While there have been several trans-European programmes for aircraft, including fighter and transport, and ships which have gone from idea to blueprint to reality, MGCS is the first for an MBT.
Last month saw the creation of the MGCS Project Company (MPC) which brings together KNDS Deutschland, KNDS France, Rheinmetall Landsysteme and Thales. This is in anticipation of a contract award through Germany’s Federal
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![DVD 2026: British Army’s Ajax back in the hands of users as part of a gradual return]()
DVD 2026: British Army’s Ajax back in the hands of users as part of a gradual return
The introduction of Ajax vehicles into British Army service was stopped after operator health issues were reported during an exercise, but manufacturer General Dynamics Land Systems UK believes work over the past 10 months has dealt with the problems.
-
![Europe commits to long-range fires but countries move in different directions]()
Europe commits to long-range fires but countries move in different directions
Sweden, Croatia and France are pursuing different rocket artillery solutions as European armies seek greater reach, survivability and industrial resilience.
-
![MAAF to test Britain’s shift from armour to distributed lethality in Estonia]()
MAAF to test Britain’s shift from armour to distributed lethality in Estonia
The bilateral agreement between the UK and Estonia comes as both countries explore how dispersed troops, drones, digital targeting, anti-tank weapons and increasingly long-range fires can complement the combat mass traditionally provided by heavy armour.
