- Yes
- No
Suggestion and research done in collaboration with @Armen_Lozone
History and introduction
The German armoured combat vehicle Lynx was created by Rheinmetall Landsysteme, a branch of Rheinmetall that specialises in vehicle systems. On June 12, 2018, the KF41 version was presented at the Eurosatory defence exhibition.
The first idea sprang from Rheinmetall’s demand for a cutting-edge and potent infantry fighting vehicle for export. Infantry support, protection, and transportation are the main priorities, with anti-armour roles coming in second.
When Rheinmetall decided to work on a fire support, anti tank variant of the Lynx IFV, which they named the Lynx 120, it was necessary for the gun to have adequate anti-armour and fire support focused capabilities when using either conventional or programmable air burst ammunition such as HE-AB.
The modularity of the Lynx distinguishes it from the other German cat, the PUMA IFV. The Lynx can be modified in any way the buyer desires, ranging from an IFV to a light MBT to an engineering/support vehicle to an ambulance.
Our hero today uses the turret from the popular and highly regarded KF-51 Panther MBT recently revealed by Rheinmetall as well. The fire support version was first revealed to the world on the 18th of February, 2022.
Primary Armament
Unlike the Kf-41 Lynx IFV, the Lynx 120 has a 120 mm smoothbore gun RH-120 L/44a1:
This is a well known gun from leopard 2 with an autoloader built into the turret and a programmer coil system for DM-11 HE programmable timed fuse ammunition.
Ammunition
The Lynx 120 can use such shells as are cleared on the L/44:
- DM-63/A1 (post penetration incendiary effect)
- DM-53/A1 (post penetration incendiary effect)
- DM-43
- DM-33
- DM-11
- RH-31 (dumb fire HE)
Secondary Armament
The Lynx 120 is equipped with a 12.7mm RCWS Natter controlled by the tank commander and coaxial 7.62mm machine gun.
Turret
The Lynx 120 uses prototype turret, based on KF-51 turret but probably less protected to save on weight. The inbuilt autoloader gives the opportunity to make same amount of crew which we see in other Lynx modifications. Both Gunner and commander have access to 3rd generation TVD.
Same system as a Kf-51, but 120 mm. 20 shells ready.
So We have 16 smoke grenades ready for protection
Hull
The hull is provided with 360° 12.7mm AP protection as well as up to 30mm APFSDS protection (UFP only) with the NERA armour package (rated STANAG 4569 level 5+) as well as having AMAP armour
The hull is also equipped with a spall liner, protecting its crew of 3 as stated in the Rheinmetall Kf-41 brochure.
The Hull is shared across all other KF-41 models developed by Rheinmetall and as such, holds the same characteristics and statistics as all other hulls.
The vehicle can also be equipped by Rheinmetall’s Active protection system (strike shield)[1].
As stated by EDR magazine:
Special protection modules enable a mission-specific response to ballistic threats, improvised explosive devices, explosively formed penetrators and artillery fire, and can be quickly mounted with limited tools. Moreover, the Lynx 120 can be readily equipped with the proven, already fielded Rheinmetall Active Defence System, or ADS, to defeat rocket-propelled grenades and antitank missiles. Additional armour packages and active protection systems can be provided on request.
Mobility
Engine: Leibherr deisel engine (18-litre)(1,140hp)
Transmission: Renk HSWL 256
Top Speed: 70kmph
Weight: 47-48 t
Torque: 5411Nm
P/W: unknown due to unknown weight
Suspension: Torsion bar
Sources
- Rheinmetall presents Lynx 120 mechanised fire support vehicle
- https://www.edrmagazine.eu/mobility-and-firepower-rheinmetall-presents-the-lynx-120-mechanized-fire-support-vehicle
- Rheinmetall presents the Lynx 120 mechanised fire support vehicle
- Rheinmetall official website
- Rheinmetall official products brochures (given above in the relevant sections)
- Rheinmetall unveils new Lynx 120 infantry fighting vehicle variant - Defence Connect
- Rheinmetall Unveils Lynx 120 Fire Support Variant | TURDEF
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=66GWEpqL3AM
For the Devs
There are ready 3d model for this vehicle:
3D Army Tank LYNX120 Model - TurboSquid 1917584