KNDS Delivers First Modernized Stridsvagn 123A (Leopard 2 SWE) to Sweden

Franco-German defense group KNDS delivered the first of 110 comprehensively modernized Stridsvagn 123 A (Leopard 2 SWE) tanks to Sweden’s procurement agency FMV at a ceremony in Munich on June 22, 2026.

What the REMO program covers

Named “REMO” (Renovation Modernization), the program covers Sweden’s entire Leopard 2 fleet and is scheduled for completion in 2030. The modernization includes increased combat capability, a higher level of protection, digitalization measures, and a renewed logistics package. The program is worth €1.5 billion and is being carried out jointly by KNDS and Rheinmetall Defence.

Technical upgrades

The new L55 A1 gun gives Sweden’s Leopard a significant boost in range and firepower. The Stridsvagn 123 A is fitted with fully digital workstations and offers the highest level of connectivity, keeping it fully interoperable with other NATO-standard Leopard 2 variants.

KNDS statement

KNDS Deutschland CEO Florian Hohenwarter said the delivery “reflects the close and reliable cooperation we have maintained with Sweden for decades,” calling the Stridsvagn 123 A “one of the most modern main battle tanks” in service today.

Delivery timeline and training

Initial crew training is scheduled to begin in autumn 2026. Stockholm plans to receive 22 modernized tanks annually between 2027 and 2031. These will strengthen Sweden’s four mechanized brigades and will operate alongside 44 newly built Leopard 2A8 tanks also acquired by FMV.

Regional context

Sweden’s post-NATO-accession land systems modernization directly strengthens the Alliance’s collective deterrence in the Baltic and Northern Europe. Large-scale Leopard 2 modernization programs of this kind also serve as a reference point for other NATO members, including Türkiye, planning their own armored fleet upgrades.