Difference between revisions of "C2A1"

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(Added pros and cons.)
(Added Leopard 2A4M CAN to the list of other Canadian Ground vehicle present in game)
 
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{{Specs-Card|code=germ_leopard_c2_mexas}}
+
{{Specs-Card
−
{{About
+
|code=germ_leopard_c2_mexas
−
| about = German main battle tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
+
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|C2A1 WebsiteImage 1.jpg}}
−
| other
+
|market=items_Leopard C2A1 MEXAS (Germany)
−
| usage-1 = other vehicles of the family
 
−
| link-1 = Leopard 1 (Family)
 
−
| usage-2 = other uses
 
−
| link-2 = Leopard (Disambiguation)
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== 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.'' -->
−
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
+
The '''Leopard C2A1 MEXAS''' is a Canadian heavy modification of the Leopard 1A3, which is the fourth variant of the [[Leopard 1 (Family)|Leopard 1 main battle tank family]]. In the late 1970s, Canada purchased 127 units of the Leopard 1A3 variant. In order to lengthen their service lives, around 114 units of Leopard C1 were upgraded to the Leopard C2 standard in 2000. The Canadian Leopard C2 was an improved Leopard C1 (Leopard 1A3) with a [[Leopard 1A5]] turret purchased from the German Ministry of Defence. The turret features an updated and improved fully stabilized 105 mm Royal Ordnance L7A3 tank gun. This tank gun can fire effectively when the tank is moving and is capable of using all NATO 105 mm tank ammunition. Thermal imaging equipment and a new computerized fire control system are standard on the Leopard C2A1. It was deployed during the Afghanistan War by the Canadian Army. There were intentions to replace these tanks with Stryker Mobile Gun Systems, but they were never carried out. Since the Leopard C2s are about 40 years old, maintenance is getting increasingly challenging. They were in service until 2015 when they were replaced by the more modern Leopard 2A4 and Leopard 2A6 variants. In general, the Leopard C2 has better armour protection than the Leopard C1. It includes NBC protection and automatic fire suppression equipment. In 2006, MEXAS add-on heavy composite armour kits were installed on them before being shipped to Afghanistan. This armour proved itself to be extremely resistant against rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
−
{{Break}}
+
 
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a gift rank {{Specs|rank}} German medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update "Starfighters"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/6808-special-operation-s-u-m-m-e-r-2020-en|2020 Operation S.U.M.M.E.R.]] event.
+
Introduced in [[Update "Starfighters"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/6808-special-operation-s-u-m-m-e-r-2020-en|2020 Operation S.U.M.M.E.R. event]], the Leopard C2A1 MEXAS is a heavily modified Leopard 1A3 that is almost a unique variant in its own way. The Leopard C2A1, a hybrid between the Leopard 1A3 and the Leopard 1A5, is an attempt by the Canadian Army to extend the service life of its armoured units. MEXAS add-on heavy composite armour kits were developed primarily to counter small anti-tank weapons commonly utilized in Middle Eastern urban warfare, particularly rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). However, keep in mind that the MEXAS add-on heavy composite armour is only effective against high explosive anti-tank (HEAT) ammunition and is only marginally effective against the standard armour-piercing fin-stabilised discarding-sabot (APFSDS) ammunition used by most tanks.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and 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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 +
The C2A1 lacks significantly in armour compared to its peers at the same BR. While it has an additional composite screen added to its entire front and sides, designed to protect it from HEAT rounds, the results are lacklustre and unreliable. Still, it does protect against the standard 20 mm autocannon found on IFVs, but its armour can be reliably penetrated by any modern APDS and APFSDS ammunition.
  
−
'''Armor Composition'''
+
'''Armour type:'''
  
−
* Rolled Homogeneous Armor - Hull
+
* Rolled homogeneous armour (hull, turret roof)
−
* Cast Homogeneous Armor - Turret
+
* Cast homogeneous armour (turret, gun mantlet, turret ring)
−
* Tracks, Structural Steel of Chassis, Structural Steel
+
* Composite screen (add-on armour on the hull and the turret)
−
* Composite Screen - Additional Armor Protection
 
  
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
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! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Hull || 70 mm (60°) ''Upper Glacis''  
+
| Hull || 70 mm (60°) ''Upper Glacis'' <br> 50 mm (50°) ''Lower Glacis'' || 35 mm (39-41°) ''Top'' <br> 30 mm ''Bottom'' || 25 mm (14°) ''Upper Glacis'' <br> 25 mm (49°) ''Lower Glacis''|| 30 mm ''Front'' <br> 15 mm (7°) ''Rear''
−
50 mm (50°) ''Lower Glacis''  
 
−
| 35 mm ''Sponsons''<br>30 mm ''Hull Side''
 
−
| 25 mm || 15 - 30 mm
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Turret || 65 mm ''Turret front'' <br>45 - 200 mm (0-67°) ''Gun mantlet'' || 37 - 45 mm ''Left Side''  
+
| Turret || 65 mm ''Turret front'' <br> 45-200 mm (0-67°) ''Gun mantlet'' || 37-45 mm ''Left Side'' <br> 40-43 mm ''Right Side'' || 25-52 mm || 20-35 mm
−
40 - 43 mm ''Right Side''  
 
−
| 25 - 52 mm ||20 - 35 mm
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Cupola(s) || colspan="3" |30 mm||20 mm
+
|}
 +
'''Notes:'''
 +
 
 +
* Suspension wheels, tracks and bogies are 20 mm thick.
 +
* Storage boxes at the back of the turret are 5 mm thick.
 +
* Additional armour covers the hull and the turret:
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 
|-
 
|-
−
|Additional
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! Composite screens !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides
−
Armor
+
|-
−
|Composite Screen (Variable Thickness) ''Upper Gun Mantlet''
+
| Hull || Up to 200 mm ''Upper Glacis'' <br> Up to 200 mm ''Lower Glacis'' || Up to 320 mm ''Top'' <br> Up to 150 mm ''Bottom''
−
Composite Screen (Variable Thickness) ''Upper and Lower Glacis''
+
|-
−
|Composite Screen ''Turret''
+
| Turret || Up to 450 mm ''Gun mantlet'' || Up to 320 mm
−
Composite Screen ''Hull''
 
−
|5 mm ''Storage Boxes''
 
−
|N/A
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
−
 
−
'''Notes:''' <!-- Any additional notes which the user needs to be aware of -->
 
−
<!-- Example: * Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick, tracks are 30 mm thick, and torsion bars are 60 mm thick. -->
 
−
 
−
* Turret Ring - 40 mm
 
−
* Main Gun - 25 mm
 
−
* Machine Guns - 5 mm
 
−
* Tracks and Suspension - 20 mm
 
  
 
=== 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=1,286|rbMinHp=734}}
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,286|rbMinHp=734}}
 +
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
 +
{{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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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|L7A3 (105 mm)}}
 
{{main|L7A3 (105 mm)}}
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==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
{{:L7A3 (105 mm)/Ammunition|DM12, DM512, DM23, DM33}}
−
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
 
−
|-
 
−
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM12 || HEATFS || 400 || 400 || 400 || 400 || 400 || 400
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM502 || HESH || 127 || 127 || 127 || 127 || 127 || 127
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM23 || APFSDS || 337 || 335 || 330 || 322 || 314 || 306
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM33 || APFSDS || 408 || 405 || 398 || 389 || 379 || 370
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
−
! colspan="10" | Shell details
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Velocity<br>(m/s)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Projectile<br>Mass (kg)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay<br>(m)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity<br>(mm)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass<br>(TNT equivalent) (g)
 
−
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
 
−
|-
 
−
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM12 || HEATFS || 1,173 || 10.5 || 0.0 || 0.1 || 1,270 || 65° || 72° || 77°
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM502 || HESH || 732 || 14.85 || 0.4 || 0.1 || 4,310 || 73° || 77° || 80°
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM23 || APFSDS || 1,455 || 3.79 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 78° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM33 || APFSDS || 1,455 || 3.79 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 78° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
−
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
+
[[File:Ammoracks_Leopard_I.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the [[Leopard I]] (identical layout)]]
 +
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
Line 138: Line 93:
 
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 
! 4th<br>rack empty
 
! 4th<br>rack empty
 +
! 5th<br>rack empty
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''55''' || 55&nbsp;''(+0)'' || 16&nbsp;''(+39)'' || 12&nbsp;''(+43)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+54)'' || No
+
| '''55''' || 55&nbsp;''(+0)'' || 54&nbsp;''(+1)'' || 15&nbsp;''(+40)'' || 12&nbsp;''(+43)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+54)'' || Yes
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 
Notes:
 
Notes:
  
−
* Racks 3 and 4 are first stage ammo racks. They total 15 shells and get filled first when loading up the tank.
+
* Racks 4 and 5 are first stage ammo racks. They total 14 shells and get filled first when loading up the tank.
−
* These racks are also emptied early: the rack depletion order at full capacity is: 4 - 3 - 1 - 2.
+
* These racks are also emptied early: the rack depletion order at full capacity is: 4 - 5 - 1 - 2 - 3.
−
* To go into battle with the frontal ammo racks empty, pack 16&nbsp;''(+39)'' shells.
+
* To go into battle with the frontal ammo racks empty, pack 15&nbsp;''(+40)'' shells.
  
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
 +
{{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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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|C6 (7.62 mm)}}
 
{{main|C6 (7.62 mm)}}
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! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Coaxial || 4,500 (200) || 600 || N/A || N/A
+
| Coaxial || 4,600 (200) || 600 || N/A || N/A
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Pintle || 2,000 (200) || 600 || -__°/+__° || ±__°
+
| Pintle || 2,000 (200) || 600 || -8°/+20° || ±120°
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
Line 167: Line 125:
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== 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).''
 
''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"
 
−
! Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Mobility
 
−
! Protection
 
−
! colspan="3" | Firepower
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Tracks
 
−
|
 
−
| Parts
 
−
| Horizontal Drive
 
−
| DM502
 
−
| DM23
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
| Suspension
 
−
| Brake System
 
−
| FPE
 
−
| Adjustment of Fire
 
−
|
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Filters
 
−
|
 
−
| Crew Replenishment
 
−
| Elevation Mechanism
 
−
| Smoke grenade
 
−
| NVD
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
| Transmission
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
| Artillery Support
 
−
| DM33
 
−
| Laser rangefinder
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
=== 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:'''
  
−
- The extra composite screens work as a spaced armor and are an effective protection against HEAT in some parts.
+
* Deadly gun with excellent APFSDS rounds (408 mm penetration at 10 m, 1,455 m/s), as well as good ammo options available (HEAT, HESH rounds)
 +
* Adequate gun depression/elevation angles (+20°/-9°), so good at fighting uphill and downhill
 +
* Effective two axis stabilization
 +
* Effective zoom values (4x-12x) to look for targets and place accurate shots
 +
* The extra composite screens work as a spaced armour and are an effective protection against HEAT in some parts
 +
* Good reverse speed (25 km/h) to get out of sticky situations
 +
* Access to a laser range finder for quick and accurate ranging
 +
* Access to thermal imaging to spot targets in bad conditions (only 1st gen though, 800 x 600 resolution)
 +
* Can produce a favourable German line-up alongside the [[Leopard A1A1 (L/44)]], Leopard A1A1, Radkampfwgen 90 etc.
  
−
- Good two axis stabilization
+
'''Cons:'''
  
−
- Good gun depression/elevation angles (-9° , 20°), so good uphill and downhill.
+
* Armour will not protect you against most APFSDS rounds nor chemical rounds, especially to the front
 +
* Roof-mounted MG are in rifle-calibres, and can not cause sufficient damage against most encountered enemies
 +
* Heavier weight than the standard Leopard 1 due to extra screen armour affects acceleration, handling, and turret traverse
  
−
- As it's a Leopard, good reverse speed (25km/h) to get out of sticky situations.
+
== 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).'' -->
 +
In 1999, the Canadian Armed Forces sought to upgrade their arsenal of 66 Leopard C1s which were purchased from West Germany in June 1977. The tanks underwent refurbishment that equipped the tanks with a new turret, gunsight, and hydraulic systems for better long-distance movement. In the year 2006, the C2A1s saw action when a 15 tank squadron from the Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians) was deployed to Afghanistan to support the peacekeeping effort started by the United States and other countries, which included Canada, following the September 11th terrorist attacks in New York. While in Afghanistan the squadron's C2A1's received further modification to accommodate the fighting situation. The modifications were new mine-resistant armour on the bottom of the hull to combat IEDs and anti-tank mines prevalent in the area. For the comfort of the crew, a new cooling system and thermal covers were added to the C2s serving in Afghanistan. The C2's were recalled in 2011 when Canada concluded all combat operations in Afghanistan. Canada replaced its fleet of C2A1s with new Leopard 2s in 2017.
  
−
- Access to thermal imaging with a good resolution to spot targets in bad conditions.
+
== Media ==
 +
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
  
−
- Excellent zoom values (4x-12x) to look for targets and place accurate shots.
+
;Skins
  
−
- Good mobility. A bit slower than the normal Leopard 1 because of the extra weight, but it's only 1 extra ton (from 43tons to 44tons)
+
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=germ_leopard_c2_mexas Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
−
- Deadly gun with excellent APFSDS rounds (408m penetration at 10m for 230SL, 1455m/s) with excellent accuracy.
+
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|HevEKURFzX8|'''Leopard {{PAGENAME}} Mexas - Not Always Sorry''' - ''JustinPlaysYT''|V84EpiHPv7c|'''Should You Grind the Leopard {{PAGENAME}} Mexas? Review/Buyer's Guide''' - ''theScottishKoala''|c74Po7fHfL4|'''{{PAGENAME}} Tank Review - Keep Or Sell?''' - ''Napalmratte''|bPqFZ9vpmu8|'''Leopard {{PAGENAME}} MEXAS''' - ''ConeOfArc''|zTm-671gNNY|'''Should You Grind The {{PAGENAME}} MEXAS?''' - ''Sako Sniper''}}
  
−
- Good ammo options (HEAT, HESH rounds)
+
== See also ==
−
 
+
<!-- ''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
−
- Mobility is above average for a medium tank.
+
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
−
 
+
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
−
- Access to a laser range finder for quick and accurate ranging.
 
−
 
 
−
- Roof mounted 7.62 machine gun to protect against helicopters.
 
  
−
- Good BR (9.0), the same at the Premium Leopard A1A1 L/44, for a balanced line up. won't meet the 10.3-10.7 monsters when uptiered.
+
;Related development
  
−
*
+
* [[Leopard 1 (Family)]]
  
−
'''Cons:'''
+
;Other Canadian ground vehicles present in the game
  
−
- Armor isn't designed to counter AP ammo. It's still a Leopard 1 under these composite plates.
+
* [[M5A1 (5th arm.div.)]]
−
 
+
* [[M4A5]]
−
*
+
* [[QF 3.7 Ram]]
−
 
+
* [[Skink]]
−
== History ==
+
* [[ADATS (M113)]]
−
''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).''
+
* [[Leopard 2A4M|Leopard 2A4M CAN]]
−
 
 
−
== Media ==
 
−
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
 
−
 
 
−
== 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 ==
 
== 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.'' -->
  
 
* [[wt:en/news/6813/current|[Devblog] Operation S.U.M.M.E.R. Leopard C2A1 MEXAS]]
 
* [[wt:en/news/6813/current|[Devblog] Operation S.U.M.M.E.R. Leopard C2A1 MEXAS]]
 +
* [https://tanknutdave.com/canadian-leopard-c2-tank/ <nowiki>[Tank Nut Dave]</nowiki> The Canadian Leopard C2 Tank]
  
 +
{{TankManufacturer KMW}}
 
{{Germany medium tanks}}
 
{{Germany medium tanks}}

Latest revision as of 18:04, 12 August 2024

RANK 5 FRANCE
Somua SM PACK
C2A1
germ_leopard_c2_mexas.png
GarageImage C2A1.jpg
C2A1 WebsiteImage 1.jpg
C2A1
Germany flag.png Germany
VI Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
9.3 9.3 9.3
Class:
Purchase:Bundle or Gift
Show in game
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Description

The Leopard C2A1 MEXAS is a Canadian heavy modification of the Leopard 1A3, which is the fourth variant of the Leopard 1 main battle tank family. In the late 1970s, Canada purchased 127 units of the Leopard 1A3 variant. In order to lengthen their service lives, around 114 units of Leopard C1 were upgraded to the Leopard C2 standard in 2000. The Canadian Leopard C2 was an improved Leopard C1 (Leopard 1A3) with a Leopard 1A5 turret purchased from the German Ministry of Defence. The turret features an updated and improved fully stabilized 105 mm Royal Ordnance L7A3 tank gun. This tank gun can fire effectively when the tank is moving and is capable of using all NATO 105 mm tank ammunition. Thermal imaging equipment and a new computerized fire control system are standard on the Leopard C2A1. It was deployed during the Afghanistan War by the Canadian Army. There were intentions to replace these tanks with Stryker Mobile Gun Systems, but they were never carried out. Since the Leopard C2s are about 40 years old, maintenance is getting increasingly challenging. They were in service until 2015 when they were replaced by the more modern Leopard 2A4 and Leopard 2A6 variants. In general, the Leopard C2 has better armour protection than the Leopard C1. It includes NBC protection and automatic fire suppression equipment. In 2006, MEXAS add-on heavy composite armour kits were installed on them before being shipped to Afghanistan. This armour proved itself to be extremely resistant against rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

Introduced in Update "Starfighters" as a reward for the 2020 Operation S.U.M.M.E.R. event, the Leopard C2A1 MEXAS is a heavily modified Leopard 1A3 that is almost a unique variant in its own way. The Leopard C2A1, a hybrid between the Leopard 1A3 and the Leopard 1A5, is an attempt by the Canadian Army to extend the service life of its armoured units. MEXAS add-on heavy composite armour kits were developed primarily to counter small anti-tank weapons commonly utilized in Middle Eastern urban warfare, particularly rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). However, keep in mind that the MEXAS add-on heavy composite armour is only effective against high explosive anti-tank (HEAT) ammunition and is only marginally effective against the standard armour-piercing fin-stabilised discarding-sabot (APFSDS) ammunition used by most tanks.

General info

Survivability and armour

Smoke grenades
Creation of a smoke screen in front of the vehicle
Armourfront / side / back
Hull70 / 35 / 25
Turret65 / 45 / 52
Crew4 people
Visibility95 %

The C2A1 lacks significantly in armour compared to its peers at the same BR. While it has an additional composite screen added to its entire front and sides, designed to protect it from HEAT rounds, the results are lacklustre and unreliable. Still, it does protect against the standard 20 mm autocannon found on IFVs, but its armour can be reliably penetrated by any modern APDS and APFSDS ammunition.

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour (hull, turret roof)
  • Cast homogeneous armour (turret, gun mantlet, turret ring)
  • Composite screen (add-on armour on the hull and the turret)
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 70 mm (60°) Upper Glacis
50 mm (50°) Lower Glacis 		35 mm (39-41°) Top
30 mm Bottom 		25 mm (14°) Upper Glacis
25 mm (49°) Lower Glacis		 30 mm Front
15 mm (7°) Rear
Turret 65 mm Turret front
45-200 mm (0-67°) Gun mantlet 		37-45 mm Left Side
40-43 mm Right Side 		25-52 mm 20-35 mm

Notes:

  • Suspension wheels, tracks and bogies are 20 mm thick.
  • Storage boxes at the back of the turret are 5 mm thick.
  • Additional armour covers the hull and the turret:
Composite screens Front (Slope angle) Sides
Hull Up to 200 mm Upper Glacis
Up to 200 mm Lower Glacis 		Up to 320 mm Top
Up to 150 mm Bottom
Turret Up to 450 mm Gun mantlet Up to 320 mm

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB69 / 27 km/h
RB and SB63 / 25 km/h
Number of gears8 forward
4 back
Weight44.0 t
Engine power
AB1 584 hp
RB and SB830 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB36.0 hp/t
RB and SB18.9 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 69 27 44 1,286 1,584 29.23 36
Realistic 63 25 734 830 16.68 18.86

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB4 185 → 6 227 Sl icon.png
RB4 270 → 6 353 Sl icon.png
SB5 457 → 8 120 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications183 800 Rp icon.png
303 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 700 Ge icon.png
Crew training175 000 Sl icon.png
Experts620 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 100 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 010 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
150 / 200 / 240 % Sl icon.png
226 / 226 / 226 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
7 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
360 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
470 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
470 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
2 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
3 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement ger.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
360 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
7 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_usa_HESH_ammo_pack
Research:
7 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_NATO_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
7 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
360 Ge icon.png
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Research:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
360 Ge icon.png
Mods thermal sight.png
NVD
Research:
9 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
360 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
470 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_DM33_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
470 Ge icon.png
Mods tank laser rangefinder.png
Laser rangefinder
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
470 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

105 mm L7A3 cannon
Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Ammunition55 rounds
First-order14 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
8.7 → 6.7 s
Vertical guidance-9° / 20°
Main article: L7A3 (105 mm)
105 mm L7A3 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 55 -9°/+20° ±180° Two-plane 22.85 31.62 38.40 42.47 45.18 8.71 7.70 7.10 6.70
Realistic 14.28 16.80 20.40 22.56 24.00

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
DM12 HEATFS 400 400 400 400 400 400
DM512 HESH 127 127 127 127 127 127
DM23 APFSDS 337 335 330 322 314 306
DM33 APFSDS 408 405 398 389 379 370
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%
DM12 HEATFS 1,174 10.5 0.05 0.1 1.27 65° 72° 77°
DM512 HESH 732 11.2 0.1 4 4.31 73° 77° 80°
DM23 APFSDS 1,455 4.2 - - - 78° 80° 81°
DM33 APFSDS 1,455 3.79 - - - 78° 80° 81°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the Leopard I (identical layout)
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		5th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
55 55 (+0) 54 (+1) 15 (+40) 12 (+43) 1 (+54) Yes

Notes:

  • Racks 4 and 5 are first stage ammo racks. They total 14 shells and get filled first when loading up the tank.
  • These racks are also emptied early: the rack depletion order at full capacity is: 4 - 5 - 1 - 2 - 3.
  • To go into battle with the frontal ammo racks empty, pack 15 (+40) shells.

Machine guns

7.62 mm C6A1 FLEX machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition4 400 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate1 001 shots/min
7.62 mm C6A1 FLEX machine gun
Ammunition2 000 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate1 001 shots/min
Main article: C6 (7.62 mm)
7.62 mm C6
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 4,600 (200) 600 N/A N/A
Pintle 2,000 (200) 600 -8°/+20° ±120°

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).

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Deadly gun with excellent APFSDS rounds (408 mm penetration at 10 m, 1,455 m/s), as well as good ammo options available (HEAT, HESH rounds)
  • Adequate gun depression/elevation angles (+20°/-9°), so good at fighting uphill and downhill
  • Effective two axis stabilization
  • Effective zoom values (4x-12x) to look for targets and place accurate shots
  • The extra composite screens work as a spaced armour and are an effective protection against HEAT in some parts
  • Good reverse speed (25 km/h) to get out of sticky situations
  • Access to a laser range finder for quick and accurate ranging
  • Access to thermal imaging to spot targets in bad conditions (only 1st gen though, 800 x 600 resolution)
  • Can produce a favourable German line-up alongside the Leopard A1A1 (L/44), Leopard A1A1, Radkampfwgen 90 etc.

Cons:

  • Armour will not protect you against most APFSDS rounds nor chemical rounds, especially to the front
  • Roof-mounted MG are in rifle-calibres, and can not cause sufficient damage against most encountered enemies
  • Heavier weight than the standard Leopard 1 due to extra screen armour affects acceleration, handling, and turret traverse

History

In 1999, the Canadian Armed Forces sought to upgrade their arsenal of 66 Leopard C1s which were purchased from West Germany in June 1977. The tanks underwent refurbishment that equipped the tanks with a new turret, gunsight, and hydraulic systems for better long-distance movement. In the year 2006, the C2A1s saw action when a 15 tank squadron from the Lord Strathcona's Horse (Royal Canadians) was deployed to Afghanistan to support the peacekeeping effort started by the United States and other countries, which included Canada, following the September 11th terrorist attacks in New York. While in Afghanistan the squadron's C2A1's received further modification to accommodate the fighting situation. The modifications were new mine-resistant armour on the bottom of the hull to combat IEDs and anti-tank mines prevalent in the area. For the comfort of the crew, a new cooling system and thermal covers were added to the C2s serving in Afghanistan. The C2's were recalled in 2011 when Canada concluded all combat operations in Afghanistan. Canada replaced its fleet of C2A1s with new Leopard 2s in 2017.

Media

Skins
Videos
Leopard C2A1 Mexas - Not Always Sorry - JustinPlaysYT
Should You Grind the Leopard C2A1 Mexas? Review/Buyer's Guide - theScottishKoala
C2A1 Tank Review - Keep Or Sell? - Napalmratte
Leopard C2A1 MEXAS - ConeOfArc
Should You Grind The C2A1 MEXAS? - Sako Sniper

See also

Related development
Other Canadian ground vehicles present in the game

External links


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

Germany medium tanks
Pz.III  Pz.III B · Pz.III E · Pz.III F · Pz.III J · Pz.III J1 · Pz.III J1 TD · Pz.III L · Pz.III M · Pz.III N
Pz.IV  Pz.IV C · Pz.IV E · Pz.IV F1 · Pz.IV F2 · Pz.IV G · Pz.IV H · Pz.IV J · Pz.Bef.Wg.IV J
Pz.V  VK 3002 (M) · Panther A · Panther D · Panther F · Panther G · Ersatz M10 · Panther II
M48 upgrades  M48A2 G A2 · M48 Super
Leopard 1  Leopard I · Leopard A1A1 · Leopard A1A1 (L/44) · Leopard 1A5 · C2A1 · Turm III
Leopard 2  PT-16/T14 mod. · Leopard 2K · Leopard 2AV
  Leopard 2A4 · Leopard 2 (PzBtl 123) · Leopard 2A4M · Leopard 2 PL · Leopard 2A5 · Leopard 2 PSO · Leopard 2A6 · Leopard 2A7V
Trophies  ▀M4 748 (a) · ▀T 34 747 (r)
Other  Nb.Fz. · KPz-70
USA  mKPz M47 G · M48A2 C
USSR  ◊T-72M1

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