Next-generation Franco-German tank under threat as France opts for interim solution
France has begun looking for an interim tank to replace the Leclerc ahead of a next-generation platform. (Photo: KNDS)
The French Army’s upgraded Leclerc main battle tank is expected to begin retiring before the end of the 2030s and the government is looking to adopt an interim solution ahead of a next-generation tank.
The weathervane measuring the direction of the Franco-German Main Ground Combat System (MGCS) appears to have swung towards jeopardy only a month after a contract was awarded for the development of a powertrain.
On 8 April, France announced plans to spend upwards of €10.5 billion (US$11.6 billion) to boost its stockpiles of uncrewed aerial systems and missiles. In total there would be an additional €36 billion in proposed funding in an update to an original €413 billion plan to accelerate the country’s rearmament until 2030.
On the same day, French Armed Forces Minister Catherine Vautrin confirmed investigations were
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
-
![US Marine Corps to expand on-the-move power capabilities with MRZR Alpha 5kW]()
US Marine Corps to expand on-the-move power capabilities with MRZR Alpha 5kW
The MRZR Alpha 5kW has been designed to charge multiple battlefield systems, including active defence systems, sensor arrays, onboard electronics, UAS and CUAS equipment, and other C5ISR capabilities. The platform can also power external loads such as a forward-operating tactical grid.
-
![All of NATO’s innovation ranges may be operational this year]()
All of NATO’s innovation ranges may be operational this year
The innovation ranges are designed to provide testing and validation across high technology areas and are a key part of NATO’s Rapid Adoption Action Plan to get new technologies into service faster.
-
![Latvian drone interceptor units to enter service “within weeks”]()
Latvian drone interceptor units to enter service “within weeks”
Latvia is one of the countries at the forefront of developing a counter uncrewed aerial system capability, drawing on its own industry to meet a geographical and geo-political circumstance that has seen drone incursions rise.
-
![British Army turns to local option for small robot trials]()
British Army turns to local option for small robot trials
The UK Government has ordered XRC’s small Rhino UGV for trials just weeks after placing a contract for ARX Robotics Gereon tracked UGV which will also be manufactured in the UK. The latest move is another step in creating a force of 40% uncrewed systems.
-
![SOF Week 2026: The Gear Keeping Warfighters Ready in Extreme Climates (Video)]()
SOF Week 2026: The Gear Keeping Warfighters Ready in Extreme Climates (Video)
At SOF Week 2026, Pro-Shot Defense discusses the maintenance technologies and weapon support tools designed to keep special operations forces mission ready in the world’s harshest environments.
