Franco-German KNDS launches new tank for France as joint project lags

KNDS unveiled a new "CAPINT" intermediate tank at Eurosatory — a German chassis with a French gun — as a stopgap for France's ageing Leclerc fleet.
The long‑delayed Franco‑German MGCS next‑generation tank project is in doubt, with Germany pursuing parallel plans (Leopard 2AX/Leopard 3) and talks on whether a joint tank will still be built.
KNDS is preparing a Paris/Frankfurt IPO while Berlin seeks safeguards to protect know‑how, highlighting tensions between European defence cooperation and national protectionism.