RENK and KNDS extend contract for Leopard 2 transmissions, with deliveries from 2029

By Martin Chomsky (Defence Industry Europe)

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RENK and KNDS extend contract for Leopard 2 transmissions, with deliveries from 2029

Photo: U.S. Army.

RENK Group and KNDS Deutschland have expanded a Leopard 2 transmission order by around €130 million, with deliveries scheduled from 2029 to 2032. The agreement covers equipment for the main battle tank and other vehicles in the Leopard 2 family.

RENK will supply HSWL 354 transmissions, TCS-354A control units and G4MA11 gear selectors. KNDS said the extension supports its production ramp-up and the expansion of Leopard 2 fleets in Germany and other NATO countries.

“The LEOPARD 2 is the backbone of Western armed forces,” said Dr. Alexander Sagel, chief executive of RENK Group. “For decades, our HSWL 354 has ensured that troops can rely on the mobility of their vehicle under all conditions.”

“The extension of the order reflects the trust that KNDS has in our technology and ability to deliver,” Sagel said. “Together, we are making our contribution to help the Bundeswehr and NATO forces acquire the capabilities they need to defend Europe.”

“The expansion of this contract is an important milestone for the growth of the LEOPARD 2 fleet, which clearly strengthens the defense capabilities of Germany and other NATO countries,” said Dr. Axel Scheibel, chief technology officer of KNDS Deutschland. “The RENK Group is a strategic partner of KNDS, supporting us—not least as part of our production ramp-up—to provide customers with the best possible equipment in a timely manner.”

RENK began production of its 4,000th HSWL 354 transmission in June 2026. Its hydromechanical transmission, reversing and steering systems have supported Leopard 2 mobility for more than four decades.

Around 3,300 Leopard 2 tanks and related vehicles are operated by armed forces in 23 countries, according to KNDS. RENK’s systems are in service with NATO members and partner countries.

The companies announced the contract extension on October 14 during AUSA 2026 in Washington, D.C. Both are displaying their product portfolios at the exhibition.