Difference between revisions of "Strv 121"

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{{Specs-Card|code=sw_strv_121}}
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{{About
 +
| about = Swedish medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 +
| usage = other versions
 +
| link = Leopard 2 (Family)
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=sw_strv_121
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
 +
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
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[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is the Swedish designation for the [[Leopard 2A4]], leased from Germany in early 1994 to replace the aging [[Strv 103 (Family)|Strv 103]] and the [[Strv 104]]. A total of 160 {{PAGENAME}}s were acquired from the leasing deal and all of the vehicles would be delivered to Sweden at the end of 1994 and early 1995. In Sweden, the {{PAGENAME}} would go through some changes like being equipped with Swedish radio equipment, reflective tape, and new lights for road traffic, but were also painted in Swedish army camouflage. The {{PAGENAME}} would serve until the early 2000s when they were initially phased out for the [[Strv 122A|Strv 122]].
−
{{Break}}
+
 
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Swedish medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]].
+
The {{PAGENAME}} was introduced in [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]]. With a similar playstyle as the other [[Leopard 2A4]]s, it is able to compete with the other nations' top MBTs like the [[T-80 (Family)|T-80]], [[M1A2 Abrams]], and [[Leclerc (Family)|Leclerc]]. The {{PAGENAME}} is agile and can manoeuvre around the battlefield with its high top speed, allowing it to reach capture points and good positions fast. The {{PAGENAME}} has a relatively vulnerable hull compared to the more well-armoured turret, and will excel in a hull-down position like most MBTs. Its 120 mm cannon gives it excellent firepower to deal with most opponents and has great penetration capability at further ranges, making it an excellent vehicle to have long distance engagements with enemies where the armour will have an improved chance of protecting the vehicle.  
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
−
''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.''
+
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
 +
[[File:Strv 121 Armour.png|250px|thumb|Frontal armour display of the Strv 121.]]
 +
The Strv 121's kinetic protection is reasonable, with the turret cheeks near-invulnerable to all but the most powerful rounds (e.g. CL3143) and the upper front plate capable of protecting against less powerful rounds (e.g. M735) - however besides these sections the remainder of the vehicle is largely vulnerable to high-powered kinetic rounds; of note are the weak lower front plate and the gun mantlet, both of which are reasonably visible targets, as well as the gunner's optics.
 +
 
 +
The vehicle sports significantly better all-round chemical protection, with an upper hull and turret essentially immune to all but the most powerful ATGMs frontally, with upwards of 800 mm worth of equivalent protection in places. Despite this, it's advisable to be wary of incoming ATGMs as a well-placed round may sneak past the heavily protected areas - and some missiles such as those of the ADATS will slice straight through even the turret cheeks.
 +
 
 +
As with most other MBTs, the Strv 121 is particularly vulnerable from the sides and back.
 +
 
 +
The Strv 121 is reasonably survivable, with some degree of crew spacing. However, from certain angles, the crew are placed in a straight line and successful penetration may impact three of the four crew members, resulting in a crew knock-out. In addition, well-placed side shots may impact all three turret crew members.
 +
 
 +
Ammunition is stored in the primary ammunition storage in the rear of the turret, or in the secondary storage next to the driver. The primary rack provides crew protection through the use of blow-out panels, however only has space for 15 rounds. When more than 16 rounds are taken to battle, ammunition will be stored in the significantly more vulnerable hull rack.
 +
 
 +
The Strv 121's protection proves acceptable for long-range combat, although it's ill-advised to remain in one location for any extended period of time to avoid opposing vehicles being able to hone their shots onto your weak spots. The Strv 121's protection should not be relied upon in urban or other close-range environments.
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 +
|-
 +
| Hull || 35 mm (53-82°) ''Upper glacis'' <br> 40 mm (50-51°) ''Lower glacis'' <br> 30 mm (82°) ''Driver's hatch'' || 10 mm (5°) ''Upper hull'' <br> 35 mm ''Lower forward hull''<br>20 mm ''Lower rear hull'' <br> 5 mm ''Side Skirts'' <br> 100 mm ''Composite screening'' || 20 mm (12-50°) ''All rear'' || 20 mm (0-8°) ''Hull roof incl. engine deck''
 +
|-
 +
| Turret || 35 mm (0-6°) ''Cheeks incl. Gunner optics'' <br> 35 mm (1°) ''Mantlet'' <br> 120 mm ''Rear Mantlet Plate'' || 35 mm ''Forward'' <br> 15 mm ''Rear'' || 10 mm (10°) ''Basket'' <br> 20 mm (70°) ''Turret underside'' || 40 mm (82-85°) ''Forehead Armour'' <br> 14 mm (72-77°) ''Forward sides'' <br> 20 mm (89°) ''Rear turret incl. cupolas'' <br> 5 mm (84°) ''Basket''
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
! Composite armour !! Front !! Sides
 +
|-
 +
| Hull || '''Upper+Lower glacis''' <br> 90 - 350 mm ''Kinetic'' <br> 243 - 600 mm ''Chemical''
 +
!
 +
|-
 +
| Turret || '''Turret cheeks''' <br> 420 - 800 mm ''Kinetic''<br>535 - 820 mm ''Chemical'' <br> '''Gun mantlet'''<br>100 - 270 mm ''Kinetic'' <br> 300 - 480 mm ''Chemical'' || '''Side armour''' <br> 194 - 260 mm ''Kinetic'' <br> 280 - 400 mm ''Chemical''
 +
|}
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
  
−
{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 2032|rbMinHp= 1327}}
+
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=2,032|rbMinHp=1,327}}
 +
 
 +
The {{PAGENAME}} is powered by an {{Annotation|MTU|MOTOREN-UND TURBINEN-UNION FRIEDRICHSHAFEN GMBH}} MB 838 Ca-M500 engine which produces a whopping 1,500 hp (1,100 kW), resulting in a power-to-weight ratio of slightly over 27 hp per tonne, comparable to the ratio of the early Abrams and identical to the T-80U. As such, the {{PAGENAME}} is quite mobile despite weighing over 55 tonnes, comfortably able to reach 72 km/h on-road and well capable of keeping up with its competitors. This allows for an active, aggressive playstyle, using the Leopard's high speed and good acceleration characteristics to get into an early flanking position or take early cap points - though it is important to keep in mind that opposition forces might attempt the same.
 +
 
 +
The {{PAGENAME}} has a maximum reverse speed of 31 km/h which it reaches easily, allowing for a quick retreat in sub-optimal situations.
 +
 
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
−
''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Advise about how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.''
+
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
 +
<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
 +
{{main|kan Strv 121 (120 mm)}}
 +
 
 +
The 120 mm kan Strv 121 is a domestic production of the famous 120 mm [[Rheinmetall L44 (120 mm)|Rheinmetall L/44]] cannon and is mounted as the primary armament on the Strv 121, offering a balance of firepower, accuracy, and sustained rate of fire. The 121 has three rounds available to it: slsgr m/95, DM13 APFSDS and DM23 APFSDS. Of these, only DM13 is available when the vehicle is stock, with slsgr m/95 as a tier 2 and DM23 a tier 4 modification. The L/44 is reasonably accurate at long range with any ammunition, however minor round deviation may be evident at extreme ranges (over 2,000 m).
 +
 
 +
It's advisable to primarily rely on the best available APFSDS round for engaging other MBTs. HE should rarely be used but can prove to be useful for more experienced players.
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="5" | [[kan Strv 121 (120 mm)|120 mm kan Strv 121]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
 +
|-
 +
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
 +
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
 +
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
 +
|-
 +
! ''Arcade''
 +
| rowspan="2" | 42 || rowspan="2" | -9°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 38.1 || 52.7 || 64.0 || 70.8 || 75.3 || rowspan="2" | 7.80 || rowspan="2" | 6.90 || rowspan="2" | 6.36 || rowspan="2" | 6.00
 +
|-
 +
! ''Realistic''
 +
| 23.8 || 28.0 || 34.0 || 37.6 || 40.0
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
==== Ammunition ====
 +
{{:kan Strv 121 (120 mm)/Ammunition|DM13, slsgr m/95, DM23}}
 +
 
 +
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 +
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
 +
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! Full<br>ammo
 +
! 1st<br>rack empty
 +
! 2nd<br>rack empty
 +
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 +
|-
 +
| '''42''' || 16&nbsp;''(+26)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+41)'' || No
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
−
=== Additional armament ===
+
First stage only: 16 rounds (15 in rack + 1 in gun), stored within blow-out protected compartment.
−
''Some tanks are armed with several guns in one or more turrets. Evaluate the additional weaponry and give advice on its use. Describe the ammunition available for additional weaponry. Give advice on about how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage. If there is no additional weaponry remove this subsection.''
 
  
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
−
''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.''
+
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
 +
<!-- ''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.'' -->
 +
{{main|ksp 94 (7.62 mm)}}
  
−
== Usage in battles ==
+
The Strv 121 is equipped with one pintle-mounted machine gun and one coaxial machine gun. These can be used as an anti-air deterrent or for clearing out light obstacles and crew from open vehicles.
−
''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''
 
  
−
=== Modules ===
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! colspan="1" | Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Mobility
 
−
! colspan="1" | Protection
 
−
! colspan="3" | Firepower
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| I
+
! colspan="5" | [[ksp 94 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm ksp 94]]
−
| Tracks
 
−
|
 
−
| Parts
 
−
| Horizontal Drive
 
−
|
 
−
|
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| II
+
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
−
| Suspension
 
−
| Brake System
 
−
| FPE
 
−
| Adjustment of Fire
 
−
| slsgr m/95
 
−
|
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| III
+
| Coaxial || 5,000 (200) || 1,200 || N/A || N/A
−
| Filters
 
−
|
 
−
| Crew Replenishment
 
−
| Elevation Mechanism
 
−
| Smoke grenade
 
−
| NVD
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| IV
+
| Pintle || 2,000 (200) || 1,200 || -10°/+75° || ±180°
−
| Transmission
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
| Artillery Support
 
−
| DM23
 
−
| Laser rangefinder
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
 +
== Usage in battles ==
 +
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 +
The Strv 121 may feel somewhat sluggish when stock, but unlike the German [[Leopard 2A4]] that the Strv 121 is based off of, the 121 gets DM13 stock. This allows for more aggressive early research play than its German brother.
 +
 +
The 121 can be used comfortably in both urban and rural environments, providing the vehicle's weaknesses are kept in mind. While it is capable in most forms of engagement, it does lack the precision of the British Challenger MBTs or the extreme round velocities of the Russian T-64/T-80 series. The 121 also has a particularly large and blocky profile, making for a particularly visible target in many situations.
 +
 +
Considering the above, a Strv 121 player should utilize its great mobility and competitive gun to get into early positions to pick off unsuspecting targets, rather than attempting to engage opposing forces head-on.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
−
''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".''
+
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* Powerful engine, high top speed and acceleration
 +
* Good neutral steering system
 +
* Good gunner sight magnification for long-range engagements
 +
* Reasonably high-velocity kinetic rounds
 +
* Competitive DM23 APFSDS
 +
* Turret armour can prove effective for hull-down engagements
 +
* Primary ammunition is contained within a storage unit with blow-out panels
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* Hull armour is mediocre, particularly against kinetic rounds
 +
* The gunner's optics are a weak spot, enemies who know how to aim can cripple your gun and kill your crew
 +
* The gun mantlet is relatively weak while being quite prominent, penetration can disable the gun or knock turret crew out
 +
* The turret cheeks can be penetrated by most APFSDS rounds when hit at the right angle
 +
* Secondary ammunition storage is extremely vulnerable, although this is avoidable by carrying no more than 16 rounds
 +
* Both machine guns are relatively light calibre, suffer from mediocre gun elevation and will not prove to be much more an annoyance to aircraft, particularly helicopters
 +
* Does not get access to HEAT-FS like the 2A4, instead gets access to the slsgr m/95 HE round as a tier II modification
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
−
''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''
+
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 +
 
 +
When the Swedish Military decided to procure the German-built Leopard Improved (Strv 122), they decided to also lease Leopard 2A4 tanks from Germany as part of the deal. 160 Leopard 2A4s were delivered in 1994, with the stipulation that they would be returned after 15 years. The Bundeswehr was willing to loan out their tanks because of the requirement that they reduce the amount of military equipment in service, due to the end of the Cold War. When the contract ended, 20 vehicles were purchased and kept<ref>http://ointres.se/strv_121_och_strv_122.htm</ref>.
 +
 
 +
The Swedish Leopard 2A4s were designated as the Stridsvagn (Strv) 121. They came from various production series - known as losung - from losung 1 (built in 1979) to losung 5 (built in 1987). As such, there were some minor external variations among the Strv 121 tanks.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
−
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
+
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Skins
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=sw_strv_121 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 91: Line 178:
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
−
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
−
* ''encyclopedia page on the tank;''
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
−
* ''other literature.''
+
=== References ===
 +
<references/>
 +
 
 +
;Bibliography
 +
* Leopard 2 Strv 121. (n.d.). Retrieved December 06, 2020, from http://www.army-guide.com/eng/product2392.html
  
 +
{{TankManufacturer KMW}}
 
{{Sweden medium tanks}}
 
{{Sweden medium tanks}}

Latest revision as of 12:00, 22 December 2023

RANK 5 FRANCE
Somua SM PACK
This page is about the Swedish medium tank Strv 121. For other versions, see Leopard 2 (Family).
Strv 121
sw_strv_121.png
GarageImage Strv 121.jpg
Strv 121
Sweden flag.png Sweden
VII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
10.7 10.7 10.7
Class:
Research:300 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:830 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Stridsvagn 121 is the Swedish designation for the Leopard 2A4, leased from Germany in early 1994 to replace the aging Strv 103 and the Strv 104. A total of 160 Strv 121s were acquired from the leasing deal and all of the vehicles would be delivered to Sweden at the end of 1994 and early 1995. In Sweden, the Strv 121 would go through some changes like being equipped with Swedish radio equipment, reflective tape, and new lights for road traffic, but were also painted in Swedish army camouflage. The Strv 121 would serve until the early 2000s when they were initially phased out for the Strv 122.

The Strv 121 was introduced in Update 1.97 "Viking Fury". With a similar playstyle as the other Leopard 2A4s, it is able to compete with the other nations' top MBTs like the T-80, M1A2 Abrams, and Leclerc. The Strv 121 is agile and can manoeuvre around the battlefield with its high top speed, allowing it to reach capture points and good positions fast. The Strv 121 has a relatively vulnerable hull compared to the more well-armoured turret, and will excel in a hull-down position like most MBTs. Its 120 mm cannon gives it excellent firepower to deal with most opponents and has great penetration capability at further ranges, making it an excellent vehicle to have long distance engagements with enemies where the armour will have an improved chance of protecting the vehicle.

General info

Survivability and armour

Composite armour
Balanced protection against all types of ammunition
Smoke grenades
Creation of a smoke screen in front of the vehicle
Self-entrenching equipment
Creation of ramparts and trenches in soft ground
Armourfront / side / back
Hull35 / 25 / 20
Turret25 / 25 / 15
Crew4 people
Visibility95 %
Frontal armour display of the Strv 121.

The Strv 121's kinetic protection is reasonable, with the turret cheeks near-invulnerable to all but the most powerful rounds (e.g. CL3143) and the upper front plate capable of protecting against less powerful rounds (e.g. M735) - however besides these sections the remainder of the vehicle is largely vulnerable to high-powered kinetic rounds; of note are the weak lower front plate and the gun mantlet, both of which are reasonably visible targets, as well as the gunner's optics.

The vehicle sports significantly better all-round chemical protection, with an upper hull and turret essentially immune to all but the most powerful ATGMs frontally, with upwards of 800 mm worth of equivalent protection in places. Despite this, it's advisable to be wary of incoming ATGMs as a well-placed round may sneak past the heavily protected areas - and some missiles such as those of the ADATS will slice straight through even the turret cheeks.

As with most other MBTs, the Strv 121 is particularly vulnerable from the sides and back.

The Strv 121 is reasonably survivable, with some degree of crew spacing. However, from certain angles, the crew are placed in a straight line and successful penetration may impact three of the four crew members, resulting in a crew knock-out. In addition, well-placed side shots may impact all three turret crew members.

Ammunition is stored in the primary ammunition storage in the rear of the turret, or in the secondary storage next to the driver. The primary rack provides crew protection through the use of blow-out panels, however only has space for 15 rounds. When more than 16 rounds are taken to battle, ammunition will be stored in the significantly more vulnerable hull rack.

The Strv 121's protection proves acceptable for long-range combat, although it's ill-advised to remain in one location for any extended period of time to avoid opposing vehicles being able to hone their shots onto your weak spots. The Strv 121's protection should not be relied upon in urban or other close-range environments.

Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 35 mm (53-82°) Upper glacis
40 mm (50-51°) Lower glacis
30 mm (82°) Driver's hatch 		10 mm (5°) Upper hull
35 mm Lower forward hull
20 mm Lower rear hull
5 mm Side Skirts
100 mm Composite screening 		20 mm (12-50°) All rear 20 mm (0-8°) Hull roof incl. engine deck
Turret 35 mm (0-6°) Cheeks incl. Gunner optics
35 mm (1°) Mantlet
120 mm Rear Mantlet Plate 		35 mm Forward
15 mm Rear 		10 mm (10°) Basket
20 mm (70°) Turret underside 		40 mm (82-85°) Forehead Armour
14 mm (72-77°) Forward sides
20 mm (89°) Rear turret incl. cupolas
5 mm (84°) Basket
Composite armour Front Sides
Hull Upper+Lower glacis
90 - 350 mm Kinetic
243 - 600 mm Chemical
Turret Turret cheeks
420 - 800 mm Kinetic
535 - 820 mm Chemical
Gun mantlet
100 - 270 mm Kinetic
300 - 480 mm Chemical 		Side armour
194 - 260 mm Kinetic
280 - 400 mm Chemical

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB76 / 35 km/h
RB and SB69 / 31 km/h
Number of gears8 forward
4 back
Weight55.2 t
Engine power
AB2 862 hp
RB and SB1 500 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB51.8 hp/t
RB and SB27.2 hp/t
Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 76 35 55.2 2,032 2,862 36.81 51.85
Realistic 69 31 1,327 1,500 24.04 27.17

The Strv 121 is powered by an MTU MB 838 Ca-M500 engine which produces a whopping 1,500 hp (1,100 kW), resulting in a power-to-weight ratio of slightly over 27 hp per tonne, comparable to the ratio of the early Abrams and identical to the T-80U. As such, the Strv 121 is quite mobile despite weighing over 55 tonnes, comfortably able to reach 72 km/h on-road and well capable of keeping up with its competitors. This allows for an active, aggressive playstyle, using the Leopard's high speed and good acceleration characteristics to get into an early flanking position or take early cap points - though it is important to keep in mind that opposition forces might attempt the same.

The Strv 121 has a maximum reverse speed of 31 km/h which it reaches easily, allowing for a quick retreat in sub-optimal situations.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB4 350 → 6 785 Sl icon.png
RB4 212 → 6 570 Sl icon.png
SB4 927 → 7 686 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications243 900 Rp icon.png
404 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 900 Ge icon.png
Crew training240 000 Sl icon.png
Experts830 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 100 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 140 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
150 / 200 / 250 % Sl icon.png
238 / 238 / 238 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
18 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
28 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
9 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
9 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
17 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
26 000 Sl icon.png
460 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
17 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
26 000 Sl icon.png
460 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
5 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
28 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
3 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement sw.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
18 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
28 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
9 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods dozer blade.png
Dozer Blade
Research:
9 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
120mm_DM_HE_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
9 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png
Mods thermal sight.png
NVD
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
350 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
17 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
26 000 Sl icon.png
460 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
120mm_DM_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
17 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
26 000 Sl icon.png
460 Ge icon.png
Mods tank laser rangefinder.png
Laser rangefinder
Research:
17 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
26 000 Sl icon.png
460 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Laser rangefinder
Reduces the error and increases the maximum measurable distance of the rangefinder
Night vision device
Improves visibility by enhancing natural light or active illumination.
Thermal imager
Allows to see thermal radiation in the infrared range day and night

Main armament

120 mm kan Strv 121
Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Ammunition42 rounds
First-order15 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
7.8 → 6.0 s
Vertical guidance-9° / 20°
Main article: kan Strv 121 (120 mm)

The 120 mm kan Strv 121 is a domestic production of the famous 120 mm Rheinmetall L/44 cannon and is mounted as the primary armament on the Strv 121, offering a balance of firepower, accuracy, and sustained rate of fire. The 121 has three rounds available to it: slsgr m/95, DM13 APFSDS and DM23 APFSDS. Of these, only DM13 is available when the vehicle is stock, with slsgr m/95 as a tier 2 and DM23 a tier 4 modification. The L/44 is reasonably accurate at long range with any ammunition, however minor round deviation may be evident at extreme ranges (over 2,000 m).

It's advisable to primarily rely on the best available APFSDS round for engaging other MBTs. HE should rarely be used but can prove to be useful for more experienced players.

120 mm kan Strv 121 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 42 -9°/+20° ±180° Two-plane 38.1 52.7 64.0 70.8 75.3 7.80 6.90 6.36 6.00
Realistic 23.8 28.0 34.0 37.6 40.0

Ammunition

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
DM13 APFSDS 393 390 384 376 367 359
slsgr m/95 HE 36 36 36 36 36 36
DM23 APFSDS 410 408 401 393 384 376
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (kg) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
DM13 APFSDS 1,650 4.44 - - - 78° 80° 81°
slsgr m/95 HE 736 17.5 0 0.1 3.54 79° 80° 81°
DM23 APFSDS 1,640 4.3 - - - 78° 80° 81°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the Strv 121
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
42 16 (+26) 1 (+41) No

First stage only: 16 rounds (15 in rack + 1 in gun), stored within blow-out protected compartment.

Machine guns

7.62 mm ksp 94 machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition4 600 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate1 200 shots/min
7.62 mm ksp 94 machine gun
Ammunition2 000 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate1 200 shots/min
Main article: ksp 94 (7.62 mm)

The Strv 121 is equipped with one pintle-mounted machine gun and one coaxial machine gun. These can be used as an anti-air deterrent or for clearing out light obstacles and crew from open vehicles.

7.62 mm ksp 94
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 5,000 (200) 1,200 N/A N/A
Pintle 2,000 (200) 1,200 -10°/+75° ±180°

Usage in battles

The Strv 121 may feel somewhat sluggish when stock, but unlike the German Leopard 2A4 that the Strv 121 is based off of, the 121 gets DM13 stock. This allows for more aggressive early research play than its German brother.

The 121 can be used comfortably in both urban and rural environments, providing the vehicle's weaknesses are kept in mind. While it is capable in most forms of engagement, it does lack the precision of the British Challenger MBTs or the extreme round velocities of the Russian T-64/T-80 series. The 121 also has a particularly large and blocky profile, making for a particularly visible target in many situations.

Considering the above, a Strv 121 player should utilize its great mobility and competitive gun to get into early positions to pick off unsuspecting targets, rather than attempting to engage opposing forces head-on.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Powerful engine, high top speed and acceleration
  • Good neutral steering system
  • Good gunner sight magnification for long-range engagements
  • Reasonably high-velocity kinetic rounds
  • Competitive DM23 APFSDS
  • Turret armour can prove effective for hull-down engagements
  • Primary ammunition is contained within a storage unit with blow-out panels

Cons:

  • Hull armour is mediocre, particularly against kinetic rounds
  • The gunner's optics are a weak spot, enemies who know how to aim can cripple your gun and kill your crew
  • The gun mantlet is relatively weak while being quite prominent, penetration can disable the gun or knock turret crew out
  • The turret cheeks can be penetrated by most APFSDS rounds when hit at the right angle
  • Secondary ammunition storage is extremely vulnerable, although this is avoidable by carrying no more than 16 rounds
  • Both machine guns are relatively light calibre, suffer from mediocre gun elevation and will not prove to be much more an annoyance to aircraft, particularly helicopters
  • Does not get access to HEAT-FS like the 2A4, instead gets access to the slsgr m/95 HE round as a tier II modification

History

When the Swedish Military decided to procure the German-built Leopard Improved (Strv 122), they decided to also lease Leopard 2A4 tanks from Germany as part of the deal. 160 Leopard 2A4s were delivered in 1994, with the stipulation that they would be returned after 15 years. The Bundeswehr was willing to loan out their tanks because of the requirement that they reduce the amount of military equipment in service, due to the end of the Cold War. When the contract ended, 20 vehicles were purchased and kept[1].

The Swedish Leopard 2A4s were designated as the Stridsvagn (Strv) 121. They came from various production series - known as losung - from losung 1 (built in 1979) to losung 5 (built in 1987). As such, there were some minor external variations among the Strv 121 tanks.

Media

Skins

See also

Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:

  • reference to the series of the vehicles;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.

External links

References

  1. ↑ http://ointres.se/strv_121_och_strv_122.htm
Bibliography


Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW)
MBTs 
Leopard 1  Leopard I · Leopard A1A1 · Leopard A1A1 (L/44) · Leopard 1A5 · C2A1
Leopard 2  PT-16/T14 mod. · Leopard 2K · Leopard 2A4 · Leopard 2 (PzBtl 123) · Leopard 2A4M · Leopard 2 PL · Leopard 2A5 · Leopard 2 PSO · Leopard 2A6 · Leopard 2A7V
KPz-70  KPz-70*
  *By the Deutsche Entwicklungsgesellschaft consortium, in collaboration with the General Motors Company.
IFVs  PUMA
SPAAs  Gepard · Gepard 1A2
Export 
Leopard 1  ▄Leopard 1A5 · Leopard 1A5NO2
Leopard 2  Strv 121 · ▄Leopard 2A4 · ◔Leopard 2A4 · ▄Leopard 2A6 · Leopard 2A7HU
See Also  BAE Systems AB

Sweden medium tanks
Strv m/42  Lago I · Strv m/42 EH · Ikv 73 · Strv m/42 DT · Pvkv IV
Centurion derivatives  Strv 81 · Strv 81 (RB 52) · Strv 101 · Strv 104 · Strv 105
Strv 103  Strv 103-0 · Strv 103A · Strv 103С
Strv 121/122  Strv 121 · Christian II · Strv 122A · Strv 122B PLSS · Strv 122B+
Other  Sherman III/IV · T 80 U
Finland 
WWII  ▄T-28 · ▄T-34 · ▄Pz.IV · ▄T-34-85
Post War  ▄Comet I · ▄Charioteer Mk VII · ▄T-54 · ▄T-55M · ▄T-72M1 · ▄Leopard 2A4 · ▄Leopard 2A6
Norway  Leopard 1A5NO2

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