7 Next-Gen Main Battle Tanks to Watch Out For

The next generation of main battle tanks is here, with some incredible models on the horizon. These new tanks have advanced features like stronger armor, powerful weapons, and high-tech systems that help them communicate and respond faster on the battlefield. 

Here’s a look at some of the new tanks to watch out for—each one packed with cutting-edge upgrades that could change the future of armored warfare.

1. EMBT-ADT 140

7 Next-Gen Main Battle Tanks to Watch Out For » EMBT ADT 140
Image Credit: Breakingdefense

The EMBT-ADT 140 is an exciting concept from the European Main Battle Tank (E-MBT) project, a collaboration between the French company Nexter and Germany’s Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW), under their joint venture, KNDS. 

This tank features a powerful 140mm AscalonR gun in a remotely-operated turret called the Ascalon Demonstrator Turret (ADT 140). 

The turret is designed to fire on the move, meaning it can aim and shoot while the tank is moving, which adds battlefield flexibility. This firing capability is set for demonstration in 2025. (ref)

The EMBT-ADT 140’s turret doesn’t just bring firepower; it’s loaded with future-ready technologies.

This tank anticipates future needs with sensor fusion, combining inputs from various sensors to make better decisions quickly, and active protection systems to detect and counter incoming threats. Other futuristic touches include AI and cyber capabilities as well. 

2. M1E3 Abrams

7 Next-Gen Main Battle Tanks to Watch Out For » M1E3 Abrams
Image Credit: Defensenews

The U.S. Army’s M1E3 Abrams is set to introduce several modern features to its iconic M1 series.

Although specific requirements are still being finalized, expected upgrades include a hybrid electric drive for improved fuel efficiency, an autoloader to streamline firing, and advanced armor to enhance protection. 

The M1E3 will also onboard AI to make it more effective in target recognition and decision-making, and it will have improved thermal and electromagnetic stealth, making it harder to detect. 

A concept version, the AbramsX, demonstrated many of these features, such as a lighter design, a hybrid diesel-electric engine, and compatibility with drones and other unmanned systems. (ref)

3. AbramsX (M1E3 Abrams Variant)

7 Next-Gen Main Battle Tanks to Watch Out For » AbramsX wc
Image Credit: Abovfold, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This advanced variant of the iconic U.S. Abrams tank aims to bring high-tech capabilities to an already powerful model. Recently, the U.S. Army signed a contract with General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) to develop the M1E3 Abrams. (ref)

The focus is on making this tank lighter and easier to survive in combat environments. This involves reducing the weight of the tank, which will make it faster and more mobile.

The AbramsX will also include features like improved survivability (protection against attacks) and next-gen data systems, which will enhance battlefield awareness and communication. 

The preliminary design phase is expected to align with other modernization projects in the Army, like the M30 Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle. The Army and GDLS are collaborating to define the requirements of this new variant, with a clearer timeline expected soon​.

4. KF-51 “Panther”

7 Next-Gen Main Battle Tanks to Watch Out For » KF 51 Panther wc
Image Credit: Rheinmetall Defence, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Developed by Germany’s Rheinmetall, the KF-51 Panther is one of the most advanced main battle tanks today. It was created with a focus on next-generation digital capabilities and aims to set new standards in both lethality and survivability. 

The Panther uses a fully digital NGVA (NATO Generic Vehicle Architecture) system that enables data sharing across the tank, allowing it to operate more independently and efficiently.

Designed to reduce crew needs, this tank can eventually operate with uncrewed turrets and is compatible with human-machine teaming—allowing it to work in sync with drones or other unmanned systems on the battlefield. 

Its primary gun is a 130mm Future Gun System (FGS), providing impressive firepower, and the Panther’s modular design is expected to support updates in automation and decision-support systems for years to come​. (ref)

5. Challenger 3

7 Next-Gen Main Battle Tanks to Watch Out For » UKs new Challenger 3 tank wiki
Image Credit: Ministry of Defence, OGL v1.0OGL v1.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The UK’s new Challenger 3 tank is set to replace the Challenger 2, bringing modern advancements to the British Army.

Designed to work alongside other vehicles like the Ajax fighting vehicles and Boxer infantry vehicles, Challenger 3 is a central part of the Army’s Future Soldier modernization concept, which aims to keep British forces ready for future warfare beyond 2030. 

The tank will have upgraded modular armor for enhanced defense against threats, especially from drones. This $1 billion project will make Challenger 3 a robust and adaptable option for the changing battlefield, giving it improved speed, accuracy, and protection against emerging threats. (ref)

6. KF51-U Concept Uncrewed Turret (CUT)

7 Next-Gen Main Battle Tanks to Watch Out For » KF51 U Concept Uncrewed Turret
Image Credit: Milmag.pl

Unveiled at Eurosatory 2024, the KF51-U features a Concept Uncrewed Turret (CUT), aiming to redefine tank technology by removing the need for a crew within the turret. This concept, still in its early development, includes Rheinmetall’s 130 mm Future Gun System. 

The ammunition is automatically loaded through a specialized autoloader, which can hold up to 25 rounds. Expected to be market-ready in the early 2030s, this design illustrates automation and remote operation, making it a potentially safer and more efficient choice for future conflicts. (ref)

7. Leclerc XLR 

7 Next-Gen Main Battle Tanks to Watch Out For » Leclerc XLR ss2491663437 dnoh
Image Credit: Spech/Shutterstock

An upgraded version of France’s Leclerc main battle tank, this tank will focus on two main improvements: better protection and advanced communication.

The Leclerc XLR has extra armor to protect against powerful weapons and drones, which often attack tanks from above. It’s also equipped for fast communication, letting it quickly share information with other units, so it can respond to threats and coordinate better on the battlefield.

This evolution is ongoing. In June 2023, the French Army received its first two upgraded Leclerc XLR tanks. This starts the plan to upgrade 200 of its 215 Leclerc tanks to the XLR model by 2029. (ref)

These updates show how tank designs are shifting toward automation, advanced defenses, and hybrid power systems to keep pace with modern threats and battlefield needs.

Martha A. Lavallie
Martha A. Lavallie
Author & Editor | + posts

Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.