1.
GV Tank parked
0.06

2.
GV Top view of tank
0.13

3.
GV & LV Tank firing and hitting target (2 shots)
0.22

4.
GV Tanks speeding over rough ground
0.42

5.
Gv Tank runs over mine
0.50

6.
GV Tank crossing river
1.02

7.
GV & LV Tank firing at targets (2 shots)
1.09

8.
GV Tank speeding along road with ramps demonstrating gun stability (3 shots)
1.28

9.
CU Shell being loaded into breech
1.31

10.
GV Tank firing and hitting target tank (3 shots)
1.46



Initials BB/0235



Script is copyright Reuters Limited. All rights reserved

Background: The latest versions of the West German Leopard battle tank have aroused interest around the world. The 40-ton tank is already very successful and is in fact -- if not in name -- the standard NATO tank.

The leopard is very fast and stable over rough ground, mainly because of a high power-to-weight ratio.

Another advantage is its powerful quick-firing gun which has sophisticated stabilising equipment to keep the gun steady while the tank chassis is moving violently. It is reliable and has a long component life and is easily maintained.

A further strong point is the ease of crew training because of the lack of sophisticated electronic gear in tank.