South Korea is building a tank of the future: K3 powered by hydrogen with a 5 km cannon and AI instead of a gunner

Not diesel, but hydrogen: how the tank became quieter and more secretive

South Korea is launching a program to create a new main battle tank, the K3. His main feature? It will run on hydrogen. The developer is Hyundai Rotem. It is based on a hydrogen—diesel hybrid power plant, but the goal is clear: to switch to full hydrogen power.

Why is this necessary? Hydrogen engines are much quieter, produce less heat footprint and do not emit as much smoke. This means that the tank is more difficult to detect, especially at night or in the forest. He can also stay in ambush for longer without refueling.

A cannon at 5 km and missiles at 8 — what will he hit with

The K3's weapons are serious. The main barrel is a 130 mm smoothbore cannon mounted in an uninhabited turret. The gunner is an artificial intelligence. He chooses the firing mode himself, calculates the trajectory, and even helps determine the priority of the target.

The range of damage is up to 5 kilometers. But if the target is further away, anti—tank missiles will be used - their range reaches 8 km. The tank will also receive a remote—controlled combat module on the roof: a 12.7 mm machine gun or an automatic cannon up to 30 mm for the task.

Crew in a capsule — survivability is higher, chances of survival are higher

All three crew members — the commander, the driver, and the loader — will sit in an armored capsule in the hull, separated from the turret and ammunition. This dramatically increases the chances of surviving a hit.

If a shell pierces the turret and the ammunition explodes, the capsule remains intact. The crew can continue the battle or safely leave the vehicle.

Eyes in a circle, AI mind, and drone protection

The tank will be equipped with a 360-degree viewing system — like virtual reality: the commander will see everything around without leaning out. Autonomous functions will help you navigate through difficult terrain.

Active protection will respond to missiles, and electronic warfare systems will be able to jam drones that fly to attack. Now the tank is not just a weapon, but a mobile communications, intelligence and defense hub.

Sources

1. Amalantra.ru — K3 NG-MBT design, specs & power-pack overview
2. Hi-Tech+ — Hyundai’s silent hydrogen tank & armament details
3. Building-Tech.org — K3 future tank: AI, hybrid drive & 130 mm gun
4. Mail.ru Auto — Hyundai presents silent hydrogen tank
5. Vzglyad.ru — K3 crew layout & technical characteristics

The US Army is looking for contractors for the new Abrams M1E3 tank — production will be large-scale

What is changing in the new Abrams M1E3

The US Army has officially moved on to the next stage of creating the next—generation main battle tank, the Abrams M1E3. Instead of just updating old models, the military is now looking for industrial facilities capable of mass production. This means that we are not talking about dozens of cars, but hundreds. And not about another upgrade, but about a system that will differ in architecture, energy, and capabilities.

The new tank should be lighter, faster, with a powerful electrical network to pull lasers, active protection, and AI systems.

Who will be able to supply — and what is expected of him

The request has already been posted in the federal system through the office of PEO GCS (Program Contractor for Ground Combat Systems). Companies that want to participate must confirm their experience in the production of tracked combat vehicles — not just assembly, but a full cycle: from the hulls to the transmission and turrets.

General Dynamics (the creator of Abrams) and BAE Systems remain the main players, but now other manufacturers can join them. The main thing is to be ready for scale. The army doesn't want delays, as it did with other programs.

Why is it more important than just updating

M1E3 is not just a new version. This is an attempt to change the very logic of tank forces. Instead of driving more and more armor, the emphasis is on survivability: active protection, electronic suppression, optical masking. The new generation electrical system will allow for the installation of lasers and powerful radars in the future.

Another focus is maintainability. In a real battle, a tank must recover quickly on the field, rather than going to the rear for months.

What kind of tank will the army have in 10 years?

If all goes according to plan, the first M1E3S will enter service in the late 2020s. They will replace the obsolete M1A1 and partially replace the M1A2. The main goal is not just to keep up with Russian and Chinese tanks, but to stay ahead of them in terms of flexibility and adaptability.

The US Army understands that the future does not belong to heavy monsters, but to smart, resilient and quickly adaptable machines. And the Abrams M1E3 is the first step in this direction.

Sources

1. Topwar.ru — M1E3 project after SEPv4 cancellation
2. Calibre Defence — U.S. Army 30-month fielding plan for the M1E3 upgrade
3. Overclockers.ru — PEO GCS seeks industry partners with tank-production experience for M1E3
4. HigherGov — official PEO GCS market-research announcement
5. Telegram “btvt2019” — additional commentary
6. VK post — community discussion
7. Dzen article — further analysis

Turkey completes development of Altay tank: first deliveries are scheduled for 2025

17 years of development: the path to a domestic tank

The Turkish company BMC has announced the completion of key stages in the development of the Altay main battle tank. After almost two decades — since the launch of the project in 2008 — and numerous delays related to technological and supply difficulties, it is expected that the first production tanks will enter service with the Turkish army in 2025. This will be a crucial step in the implementation of the national program for the creation of fully domestic heavy armored weapons.

Altay T1 with South Korean engine is the first stage of deliveries

According to information from BMC, the first 85 of the 250 tanks ordered will be produced in the Altay T1 modification. An important feature of this version is the use of a South Korean MTU engine licensed and adapted for operating conditions in Turkey. Previously, the development of its own engine caused delays, and the transition to a proven foreign power plant made it possible to accelerate the tank's entry onto the conveyor.

The tank is equipped with a modern fire control system, active protection, digital architecture and armor, providing high survivability on the battlefield.

BMC and the strategic goal of import substitution

The development and production of Altay is part of Turkey's large—scale strategy to reduce dependence on foreign arms suppliers. As a leading contractor, BMC strives not only to meet domestic needs, but also to strengthen its position in the international market.

The successful deployment of Altay will confirm the Turkish defense industry's ability to implement complex projects in the field of heavy armored vehicles.

Export potential and future upgrades

In addition to supplies to the Turkish army, an export version of the tank, the Altay MK3, is planned, aimed at the countries of the Middle East, Africa and Asia. In the future, the company is working on a modification of the T2 with a fully Turkish engine and an improved electronics system, which will make the tank even more autonomous and competitive.

The implementation of the Altay project marks Turkey's transition from assembly to full-fledged design and production of modern combat platforms.

KNDS introduced the Leopard 2A-RC 3.0 tank with a remote turret and increased cross-country capability

The KNDS consortium (Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and Nexter Defense Systems) has unveiled a new prototype of the Leopard 2A—RC 3.0 main battle tank. This modification, designated PT02, demonstrates a significant technological step forward, primarily due to a remotely controlled turret and improved firepower.

The main feature of the Leopard 2A-RC 3.0 is a fully automated turret controlled by the crew from inside the hull. This increases the survival rate of the crew, as there is no need for a traditional conning tower with hatches and armored weak spots. Fire control and surveillance are carried out using modern optoelectronic systems, which makes it possible to conduct combat operations with high accuracy in any conditions.

The tank is equipped with a 120 mm smoothbore cannon integrated into a modular turret, which provides increased rate of fire and flexibility in the selection of ammunition. The developers note the "expanded" firepower compared to previous versions, including the possibility of using new types of ammunition, including those with programmable fuses.

Overall characteristics of the PT02 prototype:

- Body Length: 7.95 m (26 ft)  

- Width: 3.73 m (12.24ft)  

- Height: 2.4 m (7.87 ft)  

- Total length with cannon: 11.17 m (36.65 ft)  

- Height with periscope: 2.84 m (9.32 ft)  

- Ground clearance: 0.5m (1.64 ft)  

Thanks to the increased ground clearance, the tank confidently overcomes difficult terrain, including trenches, rubble and other obstacles on the battlefield, maintaining high mobility even in conditions of intense combat.

Leopard 2A-RC 3.0 is positioned as a promising platform for future European tank forces, combining advanced technology, protection, firepower and increased survivability of the crew.

KNDS has unveiled the second prototype Leopard 2A-RC 3.0 with an uninhabited turret and crew inside the hull — a revolution in Leopard 2 design

Leopard 2A-RC 3.0

The Franco-German defense company KNDS has unveiled the second prototype of the next-generation Leopard 2A-RC 3.0 main battle tank, which stands out for its revolutionary layout with an uninhabited turret and the placement of three crew members (commander, gunner and driver) completely inside the hull. This scheme is very different from the Russian T-14 Armata and the American Abrams X concept, where the uninhabited tower is organized differently.

Leopard 2A-RC 3.0 is based on the Leopard 2 tracked chassis with a weight of less than 60 tons and dimensions of about 7.95 m in length (11.17 m with cannon), 3.77 m wide and 2.44 m high to the roof of the tower. The powerful MTU diesel engine develops 1,500 hp, providing speeds of over 65 km/h and a range of about 460 km.

The main innovation is an uninhabited turret with an automatic loader and the ability to mount 120 mm, 130 mm or even 140 mm guns (including the 140 mm Ascalon cannon developed by KNDS). The automatic loading system allows you to fire at high speed — up to three rounds in 10 seconds. Instead of the classic "basket" in the turret, the ammunition and mechanisms are completely isolated from the crew, which increases protection and frees up additional space inside the hull.

The tank is equipped with modern multispectral sensors, X-by-Wire fire control systems, integration with UAVs and digital communication and control systems. The turret has a lowered height, which reduces the damage area by 30% and makes the tank less noticeable on the battlefield. The protection system uses the Israeli Trophy active protection, and the reservation is reinforced, providing protection from 57 mm projectiles.

This layout allows the entire crew to be placed inside the hull, rather than in the turret, which, according to the developers, increases survivability and comfort for the crew, improving tactical awareness.

Thus, the Leopard 2A-RC 3.0 represents a major technological upgrade of the classic Leopard 2 with an emphasis on increased protection, firepower and digital capabilities, being an intermediate step towards the promising European MGCS tank.

Launch of the MARTE project: development of the European main battle tank of the next generation

 According to a statement from Rheinmetall, the European defense sector has launched a new initiative to develop a next-generation European main battle tank.

The project, called MARTE (Europe's Main Armored Tank), is supported by the European Defense Fund (EDF) and brings together 51 organizations from 12 countries under the coordination of MARTE ARGE, a joint venture of KNDS Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG and Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH.

Rheinmetall notes that the Grant Agreement was signed between MARTE ARGE and the European Commission on December 1, 2024, officially launching the project. The launch meeting took place a few days later in Stockholm, where representatives of major defense companies, research institutes, and small and medium-sized enterprises met to begin working together.

North Korea introduces an improved version of the Cheonma-2 tank

 

Kim Jong-un inspects an improved version of the Cheonma-2 tank

In May 2025, North Korea demonstrated a new version of its Cheonma-2 main battle tank, which features significant improvements in protection systems, turret design, and optical equipment. These changes underscore Pyongyang's desire to modernize its armed forces and increase the combat capability of its tank units.

Key Cheonma-2 Improvements

The new version of the tank demonstrates a number of important updates that make it more effective on the battlefield.:

1. Advanced protection systems: The tank has received reinforced armor and possibly dynamic protection, which significantly increases its survivability in a collision with modern anti-tank weapons. 

2. Upgraded Turret Design: The new turret shape not only improves aerodynamics, but also increases crew protection. It is also equipped with additional modules to accommodate the equipment.

3. Updated optics and sighting systems: The installation of modern optical and thermal imaging systems allows the crew to more effectively detect targets in any conditions, including at night.

These improvements build on the experience of the previous version of Cheonma-2, introduced in 2020, which has already shown significant progress in firepower and protection.

Comparison with the original 2020 version

The original version of Cheonma-2, introduced in 2020, was focused on increasing firepower and survivability. She received a more powerful cannon capable of hitting modern enemy tanks, as well as improved active defense systems. However, the new version of 2025 goes even further, offering comprehensive solutions to adapt to modern combat conditions.

Significance for the DPRK Armed Forces

The Cheonma-2 remains a key element of North Korea's tank fleet. Its modernization shows that Pyongyang continues to invest in the development of its ground forces, despite economic sanctions and international pressure. Improving the characteristics of the tank is aimed at increasing its competitiveness in comparison with its South Korean and American counterparts.

The improved Cheonma-2 can be used in both defensive and offensive operations. Due to its improved performance, it is able to effectively counter modern threats, including high-precision anti-tank missiles and aircraft. This makes it an important component of North Korea's deterrence strategy.

Unveiled in May 2025, the Cheonma-2 tank version demonstrates North Korea's serious steps to modernize its armed forces. Improvements in security systems, tower construction, and optics underscore Pyongyang's desire to maintain its military might. However, it also raises questions about stability in the region and the risks of further escalation of tensions.

Spain joins the Leopard 2A8 main battle tank acquisition program

 

Leopard 2A8

Spain has announced its intention to join the Leopard 2A8 main battle tank acquisition program as part of European rearmament. This decision was an important step in strengthening the country's defense capability and demonstrating its commitment to joint efforts to ensure security on the continent.

Leopard 2A8 is one of the most modern and powerful tanks in the world. It is equipped with advanced weapons, protection and communications systems, making it an ideal choice for various combat missions. The inclusion of this tank in the arsenal of the Spanish army will significantly increase its combat capability and readiness to perform tasks in modern conflicts.

Spain's joining the Leopard 2A8 acquisition program is part of a broader European rearmament strategy. In the face of growing threats and challenges, European countries are striving to strengthen their armed forces and increase the level of interaction and coordination. Leopard 2A8, due to its high performance and compatibility with other systems, will be an important element in this process.

Spain's decision to purchase the Leopard 2A8 also highlights the importance of defense cooperation between European countries. At a time when security on the continent is becoming increasingly interdependent, joint efforts to modernize and strengthen the armed forces are becoming particularly important. Spain, as an active participant in European defense initiatives, demonstrates its willingness to contribute to common security.

The acquisition of Leopard 2A8 will also contribute to the development of Spain's national defense industry. Participation in the program will allow Spanish companies to gain access to advanced technologies and knowledge, which in turn will increase their competitiveness in the international market. This will create new opportunities for cooperation and innovation, which will strengthen the country's economy in the long term.

T-90MS debut at IDEX 2025: Russian tank conquers Abu Dhabi

T-90MS

At the IDEX 2025 exhibition in Abu Dhabi, the Russian company Uralvagonzavod presented an upgraded T-90MS main battle tank. The debut of this improved version of the T-90 at the Rosoboronexport stand aroused considerable interest among the participants and visitors of the exhibition.

The T-90MS represents a significant upgrade over previous versions of the T-90. The tank is equipped with a number of new technologies and improvements that make it more efficient and reliable on the battlefield. Among the key features of the T-90MS are:

1. Improved Armor: The tank has received new composite armor, which significantly increases its protection against modern anti-tank weapons.

2. Modern fire control system: The updated fire control system allows the tank crew to hit targets more accurately and quickly.

3. Dynamic Protection: The T-90MS is equipped with a dynamic protection system that increases its survivability in combat conditions.

4. Powerful engine: The tank has received a new engine that provides better maneuverability and speed.

5. Electronic systems: Modern electronic systems are integrated into the T-90MS, which improve communication and coordination with other units.

The modernization of the T-90MS makes it an attractive option for both the Russian Armed Forces and potential export customers. The improved characteristics of the tank allow it to effectively perform combat missions in various conditions, which makes it competitive on the international arms market.

The T-90MS made its debut at IDEX 2025 with notable success. The Abu Dhabi exhibition is one of the largest in the world, and participation in it allows Russian manufacturers to demonstrate their achievements to a wide audience. Representatives of Uralvagonzavod noted that the tank aroused considerable interest among potential customers, which indicates its high potential in the market.

The debut of the T-90MS at IDEX 2025 confirmed that the Russian defense industry continues to develop and offer modern solutions for the needs of the army. The improved characteristics of the tank make it internationally competitive and attractive to potential customers. The T-90MS has a great future ahead of it, and its success at the Abu Dhabi exhibition is just the beginning.