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
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Land Warfare
-
![Why bridging the gap between military and COTS systems is key to seamless defence comms (Studio)]()
Why bridging the gap between military and COTS systems is key to seamless defence comms (Studio)
Technology that enables armed forces to leverage existing network infrastructure can be a game-changer in many combat scenarios.
-
![Rheinmetall Nordic’s Ragnarok mortar upgrade shows strong integration potential]()
Rheinmetall Nordic’s Ragnarok mortar upgrade shows strong integration potential
The Ragnarok Mortar Mission Module has demonstrated its ability to quickly switch platforms, presenting scope for it to be employed for multiple requirements.
-
![Could an outdated US Army organic industrial base threaten US readiness?]()
Could an outdated US Army organic industrial base threaten US readiness?
The US Army’s organic industrial base still uses World War II production methods and technologies, leading to delays and cost overruns and limiting its ability to produce critical ammunition and maintain its ground fleet in operation.
