
The Leclerc XLR is France's major modernization of its Leclerc main battle tank, designed to integrate into the SCORPION battlefield network. The upgrade adds new modular composite armor with the AZUR urban combat kit, a PASEO 360° panoramic sight for the commander with day/night thermal channels, Link 16 and SCORPION network connectivity, and improved IED/mine protection. The Leclerc remains the lightest Western MBT at 57 tonnes, powered by a unique Hyperbar supercharged diesel producing 1,500 hp. Its autoloader enables a 3-man crew and a sustained rate of 12 rounds per minute. The XLR program upgrades 200 of France's 406 Leclercs to remain operational through 2040 as France's primary armored warfare platform.
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COMBAT HISTORY
Leclerc deployed in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and Kosovo; XLR variant entering service 2024.