Ukrainian troops are using Leopard 1A5 tanks to fire from covered positions as makeshift self-propelled howitzers. They are performing better in this role than Soviet-era tanks, despite the role being more typical for the latter.
This was confirmed by soldiers from the 5th Heavy Mechanized Brigade in comments to Oboronka. According to them, the accuracy of the German tanks allows them to destroy targets under such conditions with just 3–4 shots, compared to 6–7 for their Soviet-era counterparts.
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They point to the destruction of a russian boat as an example. Typical targets for indirect fire support include enemy infantry and fortifications. The firing range in such cases is 12 km.
It is noted that only part of the tank fleet is carrying out these tasks. The rest are held in prepared positions to repel a large-scale enemy armored assault.
The military is currently awaiting the results of tests on the John Cockerill C3105 turret, which has been mounted on a Leopard 1A5 tank. The turret is expected to extend the firing range to as much as 18 km.
From Defense Express we would like to note that these claims are interesting, as the standard 105-mm L7 gun mounted on the Leopard 1A5 was not originally designed for indirect fire. Yet, it reportedly reaches 12 km—surpassing Soviet-era tanks, which are limited to 7–9 km.
However, it should be noted that the gun is rifled, which enhances both its range and accuracy. This feature is beneficial not only in standard use but also when firing from covered positions.
Even more notable is the increase in range to 18 km for the C3105 turret, which Belgian developers are proposing for indirect fire. The exact details have not been disclosed; only that such a tank has been supplied for testing.
A key factor may be the new, powerful Cockerill 105 mm HP Gun, which provides greater energy. The gun's higher maximum elevation angle compared to the standard Leopard 1A5 will also contribute.
Notably, the types of ammunition used are unknown. This is the most intriguing point, as the secret to the longer firing range may lie in them.
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