Preview: Amusing Hobby's new DEU - the Leopard 2A8 "DEU" in 1/35th scale...

Amusing Hobby's newest Leopard 2 is the "DEU" version in 1/35th scale. We lok at the kit features & the real thing in our preview...

Preview: Amusing Hobby's new DEU - the Leopard 2A8 "DEU" in 1/35th scale...

Leopard 2A8 "DEU"

From Amusing Hobby

Kit No. 35A080

1/35th scale

Injection-moulded kit

Photo-etch included.

Amusing Hobby FB page

The Subject: Leopard 2A8 "DEU"

The Leopard 2A8 "DEU" marks a pivotal shift in German armoured warfare as the Bundeswehr’s first entirely new-build production run of main battle tanks in over three decades. Moving away from the long-standing practice of refurbishing ageing Cold War-era hulls, this variant introduces a radically overhauled chassis and turret architecture designed to withstand the realities of modern high-intensity conflict. At the core of its defensive overhaul is the seamless, factory-level integration of the EuroTrophy active protection system (APS). This hard-kill system utilises high-frequency radar panels distributed around the turret to detect incoming anti-tank guided missiles and rocket-propelled grenades, launching physical interceptors to destroy threats in mid-air before they can strike the vehicle.

Beyond its perimeter shield, the "DEU" configuration places unprecedented emphasis on countering top-attack munitions and drone swarms. The turret roof has been entirely re-engineered with an aggressive layer of multi-layered composite add-on armour, specifically shaped to absorb the impact of first-person-view (FPV) loitering munitions and modern roof-penetrating explosives. To complement this passive shell, the tank features a modernised Remote Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS) on the roof, allowing the crew to engage low-flying aerial threats and infantry from complete safety within the hull. This is paired with an advanced multi-spectral signature management suite, which actively reduces the tank's thermal and radar visibility on the battlefield.

Offensively and operationally, the Leopard 2A8 "DEU" functions as a fully digitised, networked command node. It pairs a lethal 120 mm L55A1 smoothbore gun - optimised to fire the latest programmable high-explosive ammunition - with a cutting-edge digital backbone that links the vehicle directly to NATO's broader battle management systems. The commander and gunner operate with third-generation thermal imaging optics, featuring automated target tracking and an "at-the-ready" hunter-killer workflow. Driven by an upgraded 1,500-horsepower MTU powerpack to handle its near 70-tonne combat weight, this variant ensures that Germany's spearhead forces, such as those permanently stationed in Lithuania, possess unmatched mobility, digital awareness, and survivability.

The kit from Amusing Hobby:

This new kit, number #35A080 from Amusing Hobby, features the EuroTrophy Active Protection System (APS), distinctively visible via four radar panels and countermeasure launcher boxes on the turret sides, alongside a domestic German Laser Warning System (LWS). Additionally, it features visible upgrades for top attack and drone protection, including reinforced turret roof armour with newly designed sliding crew hatches, a distinctive meteorological sensor, and an advanced panoramic commander’s periscope taken from the Puma IFV for this variant.

Heat-dissipating rear grilles are depicted in plastic in this kit. No doubt there will be plenty to be added to the kit in the future if it enters service.

The main gun and turret-mounted remote MG can be posed. Hatches can be opened, but there are no internal parts.

Workable suspension is included in this variant – a shame you don't see it in action in these photos.

The kit is shown bare and painted up by Amusing Hobby's model makers; it shows a lot more of the detail you might see in the finished kit.

There is no more information on this kit at the moment. For all of their kits, check out Amusing Hobby's Facebook page, as their website does not seem to be working right now...