As a continuation of the German’s Leopard 2A4 the 2A5, 2A6, and 2A7 are the newer models with more advanced technology. The 2A5 was the first to implement the wedge shaped turret cheeks offering increased protection due to the slope of the armor. The biggest difference between the 2A5 and 2A6 is a longer cannon length for increased firepower and muzzle velocity. The 2A6 also had thicker wedges on the turret cheeks and better GPS navigation. The 2A7 is capable of firing better ammunition and different kinds including the newer multipurpose round, can be used as multiple forms of high explosive. The 2A7 is much more customizable with optional add on armor and an interchangeable remote weapon station capable of housing a 7.62mm machine gun, 12.7mm, .50 caliber, machine gun, or a 40mm grenade launcher. The Leopard 2A7 also has generation 3 thermals making target detection extremely easy even over long distances. Another technology upgrade is the auxiliary unit keeping the tank powered even with the engine turned off. The Leopard 2A5 began production in the 1990’s after that the Leopard 2A6 was made in the late 90’s and the year 2000, while the Leopard 2A7 started production in 2014. Even these small upgrades over 10’s of years have kept the Leopard up to par with other countries and serves as 22 nations main battle tank.