The new 130 mm gun is a precondition for the future tank, known as ‘Main Ground Combat System’ (MGCS) being developed by Germany. MGCS is currently being developed by Germany and France as a future replacement for the Leopard 2 and Leclerc main battle tanks, considering the increasing threat posed by Russian systems such as the Armata (T-14) MBTs.
Rheinmetall unveiled the new weapon at Eurosatory 2016.
Rheinmetall unveiled the new L/51 130mm tank gun currently undergoing company testing. The new weapon provides 50 percent improvement in performance, over the current 120 mm cannon. It is intended for use in a new class of main battle tanks. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense-UpdateThe new cannon is designed for integration in new main battle tanks. It has a vertical sliding breech mechanism and increased chamber volume handling larger, more energetic kinetic ammunition. The breech mechanism with the recoil system weighs about three tons. The barrel weighs 1,400 kg and has chrome lined smooth bore. Photo: Noam Eshel Defense-UpdateNew ammunition designed for the L/51 cannon include high performance kinetic rounds – Armor Piercing Fin Stabilized Discarding Sabot – (APFSDS), and high explosive, air-bursting munitions (HE-ABM). Both are derived from existing types designed for the L44/55 120mm guns. Photo: Noam Eshel, Defense-UpdateThe breech, and recoil mechanism of the new L/51 130mm cannon. Photo: Noam eshel, Defense-Update
Defense startup Tiberius Aerospace has unveiled Sceptre, a ramjet-powered 155mm artillery munition designed to achieve ranges up to 150 kilometers with sub-5-meter accuracy.
As the U.S. Army scales back its armored vehicle programs, European nations are accelerating major modernization efforts, acquiring thousands of new armored fighting vehicles across multiple platforms. This article examines key programs in Greece, Romania, and the Netherlands, highlighting recent, local industrial involvement, competing international bids, and the broader implications of diverging transatlantic defense priorities.
Rheinmetall showcased its enhanced SSW40 grenade rifle at DEFEA 2025, a magazine-fed, semi-automatic 40mm launcher with advanced fire control and planned support for programmable airburst munitions. Designed for both low- and medium-velocity grenades, the SSW40 significantly expands the precision and range of squad-level firepower.
The U.S. Army’s 2025 restructuring marks a decisive pivot—from legacy platforms to precision fires, autonomy, and rapid mobility. While this transformation opens new opportunities in missiles, drones, and sustainment tech, it also puts pressure on traditional players. We break down the winners, the exposed, and what this means for investors and defense suppliers.
The Israeli Ministry of Defense (IMOD) is evaluating initial proposals from some local companies to decide what types of loitering weapon systems will be deployed on Israel's Defense Forces (IDF) Merkava 4 main battle...
