Stridsvagn 122 (; is a Swedish main battle tank based on the German Leopard 2 Improved variant, just like the German Leopard 2A5, utilizing newer technology such as command-, control-, and fire-control systems, as well as reinforced armour and long-term combat capacity. Externally, the vehicle can be distinguished from the Leopard 2A5 by the French GALIX smoke dispensers, different storage bins, and the thicker crew hatches. The Strv 122B, has been equipped with modular AMAP composite armor from IBD Deisenroth to give "360° protection" against threats such as explosively formed penetrators, rocket propelled grenades and improvised explosive devices.
Features
The Leopard 2A5's width of 3.75 meters has been kept, while the weight increased by only. The Stridsvagn 122 was designed to fight in Swedish conditions including heavily forested areas as well as urban terrain. The designation derives from the 12 cm gun, on the second tank in Swedish service featuring this calibre. Strv 122 also had to overcome the perceived flaws of the original German tank, and features the following abilities:
Heavily reinforced armour to protect against man-portable anti-tank weapons.
An advanced CBRN defence system for protection against chemical, biological and radioactive weapons.
Wading capability to pass through water up to 1.4 meters deep.
Quick ability to discover, identify and lock on a target with the assistance of a laser rangefinder, thermographic camera, and a speed/distance/accuracy calculator for maximum accuracy.
Ability to lock onto numerous targets at once, enabling the tank to fight numerous enemy vehicles without having to manually re-aim the gun after every shot.
Active communication for improved cooperation between units.
Tank Command & Control System TCCS by Celsius Tech Systems AB.
Production and service
As of 2013, 42 of these tanks remain in active service. Most of the 160 Leopard 2 A4s that were originally leased are being returned to Germany. The active tanks are divided between three companies, two at P4, Skövde and one at I 19, Boden. In 2016, Sweden ordered new upgrades for the Strv 122 from Krauss-Maffei, with delivery slated to be between 2018 and 2023. Apart from routine renovation, Stridsledningssystem Bataljon, a new observation/gun sight for the commander, as well as new communication systems for international missions, will be added together with a modular 360° ballistic protection system. These upgraded tanks will be designated Strv 122C, or Strv 122D for upgraded 122B units.
