Image source: topwar.ru
In 2020-2021, the Brazilian command planned to modernize the Leopard 1A5BR tanks (116 units out of 220 available). The military considered two options and eventually chose a more budgetary one, refusing to make radical changes, such as installing sets of overhead armor (such as MEXAS or AMAP from the German company IBD Deisenroth), replacing the turret with the Belgian Cockerill 3105 or switching to a 120-mm cannon.
Along with numerous improvements, it was planned to keep the L7A3 rifled 105 mm cannon, but strengthen the tank's combat potential by installing a panoramic commander's sight, which would allow the MBT to operate in full-fledged Hunter-Killer mode. It provides that the commander, rotating the panorama 360° independently of the tower, finds the target, presses a button, and the tower automatically turns in the desired direction. While the gunner destroys the first target, the commander is already looking for the second.
In 2022, the number of machines to be upgraded was reduced to 52 due to the high cost of work. In 2023, the project was postponed indefinitely. The main reason was the shortage of spare parts on the world market, caused by their massive supplies for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
However, apparently, the program was re–launched – the tanks are undergoing modernization, but they did not receive the main element of the previous project - the commander's panoramic sight.
During the deep repair, the main problem of the Brazilian Leopard is being solved – the degradation of electronics. In the process of restoring the EMES 18 system, the failed components are replaced with modern analogues, and its digitalization is being carried out. Instead of outdated and fire-prone hydraulic tower drives, electric ones are being installed. New radio stations (L3Harris radios, Thales intercom) and battlefield control systems are being installed so that the tank commander can "see" the allies on the tablet. Front and rear view IR cameras, air conditioning and an automatic fire extinguishing system are installed in the MTO. Night aiming channels are being updated. The MTU MB 838 engine and ZF transmission are being completely redesigned.
Upgraded Leopard 1A5BR:
Image source: topwar.ru
The first two restored Leopard 1A5BRS were handed over to the army in January 2026. On this occasion, the command noted:
It is predicted that 5 tanks will be "upgraded" in 2026, and 52 units in just 10 years. Currently, the main resources of the country's military budget are directed to the construction of Tamandaré-type frigates and the purchase of 98 Italian Centauro II 8x8 armored vehicles with a 120-mm cannon with production localization for $0.9-1 billion. They are being purchased to replace the outdated EE-9 Cascavel wheeled infantry fighting vehicles, but are also considered by the command as "tank destroyers" and will have to take over some of the Leopard's combat missions until Brazil switches to the new MBT.
