At the upcoming DSEi international defense forum in London, German manufacturer Flensburger Fahrzeugbau Gesellschaft (FFG) plans to unveil its latest development—a concept combat vehicle called the Condor. This versatile platform, which combines fire support and air defense capabilities, is based on a modernized Leopard 1 tank chassis.
The Condor was developed to respond effectively to the rapidly changing landscape of modern combat. It is based on the proven Leopard 1 platform, enhanced with reinforced armor, advanced digital communications systems, and a modern power plant. The unmanned turret is equipped with the Turra 30–SA remotely controlled combat module from the Slovak company EVPÚ, armed with a 30-mm automatic cannon.
A key feature of this turret is its ability to fire programmable air-burst munitions, making the Condor an effective weapon against drones, low-flying aircraft, and ground targets. The dual-belt ammunition feed system allows the crew to quickly switch between different types of rounds on the move, adapting to changing missions—from air defense to fire support for infantry.
According to FFG Managing Director Jörg Kamper, the project’s main goal is to create a rapidly deployable and cost-effective system to enhance air defense capabilities. “Condor uses the proven and readily available Leopard 1 platform, which significantly speeds up the deployment process,” he emphasized. In addition, thanks to the EVPÚ turret, Condor can also be used as a firing position to support ground operations.
The vehicle measures 7.18 meters long, 3.41 meters wide, and 3.05 meters high, and its combat weight does not exceed 40 metric tons. To enhance the tank’s protection, additional armor has been added to the sides and roof. Inside the vehicle, the commander and driver are seated side by side, which improves coordination and ergonomics.
The combat module is compatible with various 30-mm cannons, including the Bushmaster Mk44. Additional armament includes a twin machine gun, as well as the Spike and Konkurs anti-tank missile systems. An integrated multifunctional radar station, electro-optical sensors, and small-arms fire detection systems provide excellent situational awareness.
The stabilized turret has an elevation range of minus 10 to plus 70 degrees, enabling the Condor to effectively engage both low-flying unmanned aerial vehicles and ground targets.
The project places special emphasis on mobility. The Leopard 1’s outdated engine has been replaced with a new Rolls-Royce Power Systems 8V199TE23 engine rated at 1,080 l.s., paired with a modernized ZF 4 HP 250 automatic transmission and a new dual-circuit cooling system from FFG. The new powerplant not only increases power and torque but also reduces fuel consumption, while weighing 300 kg less than the original. In addition, it is designed according to a modular “plug-and-play” principle, which allows it to be used to upgrade other Leopard 1-based vehicles.
A new dual-circuit braking system has also been implemented, which meets modern safety requirements and facilitates the registration of armored vehicles with civilian and military authorities.
FFG states that Condor is a cost-effective and rapidly deployable solution for quickly expanding air defense and ground fire support capabilities. At the same time, the platform has the potential for further development and adaptation to future threats.
