Hungary has entered into a substantial 288 million euro ($315.6 million) agreement to contribute to developing Rheinmetall’s Panther KF51 Main Battle Tank (MBT) from Germany. The recently signed contract marks the initiation of this collaboration, with plans to construct and certify a demonstration tank, a pivotal step towards full-scale production.
Rheinmetall is partnering on the project with Hungary’s state-owned company N7, holding a 49 per cent stake in the joint venture (JV) Rheinmetall Hungary. The Panther KF51 is set to feature Rheinmetall’s advanced L55A1 120mm smoothbore gun, also found in the latest versions of the Leopard 2 tank. Notably, the Panther KF51 will have an automatic loading system, enhancing operational efficiency.
Furthermore, the tank’s turret architecture allows for integrating Rheinmetall’s powerful 130mm gun, showcasing unprecedented capabilities. Simultaneously, Hungary is advancing its military capabilities by procuring Leopard 2A7+ and additional 2A4 units. This comprehensive plan includes acquiring Rheinmetall’s Lynx infantry fighting vehicles; Buffalo armoured recovery vehicles, and Nurol Makina’s Gidran armoured vehicles, derived from the Ejder Yalçın 4X4 platform.
Hungary Joins Rheinmetall in Panther KF51 MBT
