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AMX-30

The AMX-30 is a French main battle tank developed in the late 1950s and entering service with the French Army in 1967, designed to emphasize high mobility and firepower over heavy armor protection in response to Cold War threats from Soviet armored forces.^[1]^[2] Weighing approximately 36 tons with a crew of four, it features a low-profile chassis measuring 6.15 meters in length (hull only), 3.10 meters in width, and 2.86 meters in height, powered by a Hispano-Suiza HS-110 diesel engine producing 720 horsepower for a top road speed of 65 km/h and a range of up to 600 km.^[3]^[1] Its primary armament consists of a 105 mm CN-105-F1 rifled gun capable of firing armor-piercing and high-explosive rounds with an effective range of about 3,000 meters, supported by a coaxial machine gun (12.7 mm M2 Browning in early models or 20 mm F2 autocannon) and a 7.62 mm anti-aircraft machine gun, while its armor—primarily rolled homogeneous steel up to 80 mm thick on the front glacis—provides protection mainly against small arms fire and shell splinters rather than direct anti-tank hits.^[3]^[1]^[4] The AMX-30's development stemmed from a failed multinational Europa-Panzer project with Germany and Italy in the 1950s, leading France to pursue an independent design focused on a lightweight, air-transportable vehicle under 40 tons to support rapid NATO maneuvers on European battlefields.^[1]^[2] Prototypes were completed by 1960 at the Atelier de Construction d’Issy-les-Moulineaux, with official adoption in 1963 to replace older M47 Patton tanks, and full production running from 1966 to 1993 at the Centre de Roanne, resulting in approximately 3,571 units built by GIAT Industries (now Nexter Systems).^[3]^[4] The production model was the AMX-30B (from 1966). Key upgrades included the AMX-30B2 from 1982 with improved fire control, optics, and reliability, and the 1990s AMX-30B2 Brenus variant with explosive reactive armor for urban peacekeeping operations.^[1]^[4] Its torsion bar suspension and power-to-weight ratio of about 20 hp/ton enabled good cross-country performance at up to 40 km/h, though its thin armor made it vulnerable to modern anti-tank weapons, influencing later French designs like the Leclerc.^[3]^[4] Operationally, the AMX-30 served as the French Army's primary main battle tank through the Cold War, participating in the 1991 Gulf War (Operation Desert Storm) alongside coalition forces from Saudi Arabia and Qatar, where it conducted exploitation and support roles with minimal losses.^[3]^[1] Exported to over a dozen nations including Cyprus, Greece, Spain, Tunisia, and Venezuela, it saw varied service in conflicts such as the Lebanese Civil War, Balkan peacekeeping missions, and regional tensions in the Middle East, though many operators have since upgraded or retired their fleets; it remains in service with several international operators as of 2025.^[4] In France, the AMX-30 was progressively phased out starting in the 1990s, with the main battle tank variants fully retired by 2011 and replaced by the Leclerc, leaving a legacy as a symbol of French armored doctrine prioritizing speed and autonomy.^[2]^[1]^[5]

Development

Background

Following World War II, the French armored forces underwent a significant evolution, transitioning from the heavy tanks of the interwar period to lighter, more mobile designs. This shift was driven by logistical constraints, the diverse terrain of Europe and colonial territories, and lessons from the war that highlighted the importance of rapid maneuverability over static defense. French doctrine increasingly prioritized tanks that could be rapidly deployed and supported by air transport, reflecting the need for versatility in potential conflicts across varied landscapes.^[6] The AMX-13 light tank, introduced in the early 1950s, exemplified this approach and influenced subsequent developments. It achieved notable successes in colonial conflicts, including the wars in Indochina (1946–1954) and Algeria (1954–1962), where its high speed and compact size allowed effective operations in rugged terrain and against irregular forces. However, the AMX-13's thin armor revealed limitations when facing improved anti-tank weapons, prompting France to seek a successor that retained mobility while enhancing firepower.^[7] In 1956, amid growing Cold War tensions, the French military formalized requirements for a new main battle tank through a cooperative program with West Germany and Italy. The specifications emphasized a 30-ton weight limit to ensure air transportability by strategic bombers, exceptional mobility for rapid advances, and compatibility with a 105 mm gun aligned with emerging NATO standards. This reflected key doctrinal principles of favoring speed and offensive firepower over heavy armor protection, drawing from French observations of World War II blitzkrieg tactics and the Korean War (1950–1953), where lighter, agile tanks often outmaneuvered heavily armored opponents. The project collapsed in 1963 primarily due to irreconcilable differences on armament specifications, such as the French preference for a low-pressure 105 mm gun versus the German high-pressure L7. Initial studies for this tank began in the early 1950s under the Direction des Études et Fabrications d'Armement (DEFA), which explored innovative features like autoloaders and oscillating turrets to balance weight and combat effectiveness. These efforts built on the AMX-13's legacy while addressing its shortcomings, ultimately shaping the conceptual foundation for what became the AMX-30.^[6]

Design and production

The design of the AMX-30 prioritized high mobility and firepower while maintaining a relatively light weight, reflecting French military doctrine that emphasized rapid tactical maneuvers over heavy protection. Development began at the Atelier de Construction d'Issy-les-Moulineaux, where the first prototype was completed in 1960, followed by further prototypes manufactured between 1961 and 1963, and several iterations to optimize weight at approximately 36 tons and enhance overall reliability.^[3]^[8] Central to the vehicle's armament was the selection of the 105 mm CN-105-F1 rifled gun, which provided a muzzle velocity of 1525 m/s for APFSDS rounds and an effective range of up to 3000 m, enabling effective engagement of armored targets at typical combat distances.^[9]^[10] The low-profile turret, measuring about 2.3 m in height to reduce the overall silhouette, featured a cast steel construction for streamlined aerodynamics and ease of production.^[9] Powering the AMX-30 was the Hispano-Suiza HS-110-2, a 12-cylinder multifuel engine delivering 720 hp, which propelled the tank to a top speed of 65 km/h on roads while supporting strong cross-country performance.^[9] The suspension system utilized torsion bars with seven road wheels per side, incorporating hydraulic shock absorbers to improve ride quality and traversal over rough terrain.^[3] Production began in 1966 at the Roanne arsenal by GIAT Industries (now Nexter), marking the transition from prototyping to serial manufacturing.^[4]

Testing and evaluation

The development of the AMX-30 involved extensive testing phases from 1963 to 1967, encompassing firing tests at the Bourges proving ground, mobility trials across diverse terrains including roads from Bourges to Satory, and durability assessments to evaluate structural integrity under operational stresses.^[11]^[12] These trials included comparative evaluations with the German Leopard 1 prototype at locations such as Mailly-le-Camp in France and Meppen in Germany, focusing on performance in tactical scenarios starting in September 1963.^[12] Key evaluation metrics highlighted the AMX-30's strengths in gun accuracy, with the 105mm CN-105-F1 low-pressure gun demonstrating effective first-round hit probabilities exceeding 80% at ranges up to 1,500 meters during static and dynamic firing tests.^[13] NBC protection systems were validated through overpressure and ventilation trials, confirming crew safety against chemical, biological, and radiological threats, while amphibious capability demonstrations showed the tank fording water obstacles up to 4 meters deep with snorkel preparation.^[4] Durability assessments emphasized the vehicle's lightweight design at 36 tons, which enhanced speed to 65 km/h but required scrutiny of suspension and chassis resilience in rough terrain. In comparisons to contemporaries, the AMX-30 was lighter and faster than the 42-ton Leopard 1 and the 58-ton M60, with maximum armor thickness of 80mm on the turret front—thinner than the M60's 120mm but aligned with French doctrine prioritizing mobility and firepower over heavy protection to evade threats through speed rather than absorb them.^[14] These trade-offs were deemed acceptable given advancements in anti-tank munitions that diminished the value of thick armor.^[14] Following the cancellation of the joint project in 1963, France adopted the AMX-30 for national production, leading to entry into French Army service in 1966 with the 501st Régiment de Chars de Combat. Early issues identified during desert-condition simulations included engine overheating due to the HS-110-2 multi-fuel powerpack and transmission reliability concerns under prolonged high-speed operations, prompting initial modifications such as improved cooling systems in the "Pays chauds" variant for hot climates.^[15]

Design characteristics

Armament

The primary armament of the AMX-30 main battle tank is the CN-105-F1, a 105 mm rifled gun developed by GIAT Industries (now Nexter) with a barrel length of 56 calibres.^[3] This weapon is mounted in the turret and stabilized only in elevation, reflecting the French doctrine of mobile warfare that prioritizes rapid engagement over static defense.^[16] The gun fires a variety of NATO-standard ammunition, including high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) rounds like the Obus G, which features a spin-stabilized design using ball bearings to maintain stability from the rifled barrel, enabling effective ranges up to 3,000 meters.^[4] The CN-105-F1 employs a semi-automatic loading mechanism assisted by hydraulics, operated manually by a dedicated loader as part of the four-person crew (commander, gunner, loader, and driver).^[3] This system allows a sustained rate of fire of 7 rounds per minute, supporting the tank's emphasis on quick, successive shots in fluid battlefield conditions.^[16] Ammunition storage totals 47 rounds, distributed between the turret bustle and hull for balanced weight distribution and accessibility.^[3] Later upgrades, such as the introduction of the OFL 105 F1 APFSDS (armor-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot) round in 1979 with the AMX-30 B2 variant, enhanced penetration capabilities to counter Soviet T-62 tanks, achieving around 400 mm of rolled homogeneous armor (RHA) at 0° incidence.^[4] Secondary armament consists of a coaxial 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun in initial production models, later upgraded to a 20 mm F2 autocannon in variants from 1972, capable of dual-feed operation with high-explosive incendiary (HEI) rounds at 1,050 m/s muzzle velocity or armor-piercing (AP) rounds at 1,250 m/s, with a cyclic rate of 600 rounds per minute and 650 rounds stored.^[3] Mounted on the commander's cupola is a 7.62 mm NF-1 machine gun for anti-infantry and close-range defense, carrying 2,050 rounds.^[16] These weapons integrate with the tank's fire control systems for coordinated targeting, though detailed optics and stabilization are addressed in the electronics section.^[3]

Protection

The AMX-30's armor was constructed primarily from homogeneous rolled steel for the hull and cast steel for the turret, offering protection against small arms fire, artillery fragments, and certain medium-caliber threats but prioritizing weight savings for mobility. The turret front measured 80 mm thick and was sloped at approximately 67 degrees, providing effective thickness against kinetic penetrators, while the hull glacis varied from 30 mm on the sides to 80 mm on the upper front plate. The base model lacked advanced materials such as composites or explosive reactive armor, reflecting French design philosophy that emphasized speed and agility over heavy defensive layering.^[17]^[18] For environmental threats, the AMX-30 incorporated a standard NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) protection system, featuring a sealed crew compartment maintained under positive overpressure via filtration units to prevent ingress of contaminants, a common feature in 1960s French armored vehicles. Defensive countermeasures included an eight-tube smoke grenade launcher array mounted on the turret sides, capable of deploying a full obscuring screen in about eight seconds, along with an auxiliary engine exhaust smoke system for additional tactical concealment during maneuvers or retreats.^[18]^[9]^[3] Crew survivability was enhanced by the tank's compact, low-profile silhouette, with a height of 2.3 meters to the turret roof, which minimized exposure to enemy fire in European terrain. The turret's cast steel construction provided basic spaced-equivalent protection through its design, while automatic fire suppression systems in the fighting and engine compartments further reduced risks from internal blazes. However, the vehicle's roof armor, at only 20 mm thick, presented a notable vulnerability to top-attack munitions and aerial threats, a weakness not addressed in the original design but later rectified through upgrade programs.^[17]^[9]

Mobility

The AMX-30 main battle tank employs the Hispano-Suiza HS-110-2 supercharged multi-fuel diesel engine, a 12-cylinder liquid-cooled unit capable of operating on diesel, petrol, or mixtures thereof, delivering 720 horsepower at 2,600 rpm.^[1] This powerplant provides a power-to-weight ratio of approximately 20 hp/tonne, enabling the 36-tonne vehicle to achieve a maximum road speed of 65 km/h and a cross-country speed of 40 km/h.^[3] The engine's multifuel versatility supports operational flexibility in varied logistical environments, though it was noted for requiring frequent maintenance due to its complexity.^[9] The transmission is a semi-automatic SESM system with five forward gears and two reverse gears, incorporating a centrifugal automatic clutch, hydraulic controls, and planetary final drives for smooth gear shifts and steering via triple differentials.^[3] This setup allows for a tight turning radius and responsive handling, contributing to the tank's doctrinal role in emphasizing rapid battlefield maneuverability over heavy armor. The powertrain's design facilitates quick engine swaps in the field, typically within 45 minutes, minimizing downtime during operations.^[9] Mobility is further enhanced by a torsion bar suspension system featuring five dual road wheels per side, with hydraulic shock absorbers on the first, second, and last wheels to dampen vibrations over rough terrain.^[3] The tracks exert a ground pressure of 0.82 kg/cm², while the ground clearance measures 0.45 m, allowing traversal of obstacles up to 0.9 m high and trenches up to 2 m wide.^[10] Fuel capacity totals 970 liters in internal tanks, providing an operational range of 500-600 km on roads, which can be extended via optional external fuel tanks for prolonged missions.^[9] For water operations, the AMX-30 can ford depths up to 1.3 m without preparation, aided by its low silhouette and sealed hull components.^[9] Optional kits, including a snorkel for engine air intake and an inflatable screen for buoyancy, enable crossings of up to 4 m, though these were not standard equipment on production models.^[3]

Fire control and electronics

The AMX-30's initial fire control system, the COTAC APX M-508, incorporated an optical coincidence rangefinder coupled with a ballistic computer to compute firing solutions for the main armament, enabling effective engagements at ranges up to 3,000 meters.^[1]^[19] This setup allowed the gunner to acquire targets using a stabilized sight integrated with the main gun for on-the-move firing, though the turret lacked full stabilization.^[20] During the late 1970s and 1980s, the AMX-30B2 upgrade program enhanced the fire control suite by replacing the optical rangefinder with a CILAS laser rangefinder (accurate to ±5 meters out to 10,000 meters) and adding thermal imaging sights for improved detection in adverse weather and low visibility.^[1]^[21] These modifications, part of the broader B2 standardization announced in 1979, significantly boosted first-hit probability and operational flexibility without altering the core analog architecture.^[22] Communication systems on the AMX-30 supported platoon-level coordination through VHF radios, supplemented by an internal intercom for the three-man crew to facilitate command and control during engagements.^[4] Night vision capabilities were retrofitted starting in the early 1970s with image intensifier periscopes for the commander and driver, enabling low-light operations and extending engagement windows beyond daylight hours.^[23] Early AMX-30 models employed primarily analog electronics for fire control and sensors, limiting integration with broader battlefield networks; digital management systems were not introduced until specialized variants in later decades.^[22]

Variants

French combat variants

The AMX-30 B served as the standard main battle tank for the French Army from its introduction in 1966, armed with the 105 mm CN-105-F1 rifled gun and emphasizing mobility over heavy armor.^[3] Approximately 720 units of this base model were produced as part of the initial procurement programs in the late 1960s and early 1970s.^[4] In 1982, the French Army began upgrading its fleet to the AMX-30 B2 standard to address limitations in fire control and powerplant reliability, incorporating a laser rangefinder within the COTAC fire-control system, a more powerful 750 hp Hispano-Suiza HS-110 engine, and enhanced NBC protection.^[21] Over 493 existing AMX-30 B tanks were converted to B2 configuration, while 166 new B2 units were delivered, bringing the upgraded model's total to around 659 vehicles in French service.^[21] During the 1990s, further modernization programs enhanced select AMX-30 B2 units with advanced thermal imaging sights for improved night and low-visibility operations, along with appliqué explosive reactive armor kits to bolster protection against anti-tank threats without significantly increasing weight.^[18] These upgrades, exemplified by the AMX-30 B2 Brenus subvariant, were applied to limited numbers for high-risk missions like peacekeeping and urban combat.^[18] The French Army's combat AMX-30 fleet peaked at around 1,000 vehicles in the 1980s before being progressively phased out during the 1990s and 2000s in favor of the more advanced Leclerc main battle tank.^[24]

Engineering and support variants

The engineering and support variants of the AMX-30 were developed to provide logistical and utility support to armored formations, utilizing the base chassis for enhanced mobility while adapting the hull for specialized equipment by removing the main turret. These vehicles maintained the Hispano-Suiza HS 110 multi-fuel diesel engine, delivering 720 horsepower and enabling a top road speed of 65 km/h and a range of approximately 500 km, thus ensuring compatibility with main battle tank units in the field.^[3] The AMX-30D, or Dépanneur, served as an armored recovery vehicle designed for towing, lifting, and repairing disabled tanks. It featured a main hydraulic winch with a 35-tonne pull capacity and 90 meters of cable, an auxiliary winch rated at 20 tonnes, and a hydraulic crane capable of lifting up to 15 tonnes at a reduced radius.^[25]^[17] A front-mounted dozer blade facilitated obstacle clearance and stabilization during recovery operations, while an onboard workshop and spare powerpack storage supported field repairs.^[26] Approximately 134 units were produced for the French Army starting in 1975, entering service that year after initial pre-production trials in 1973.^[4] The AMX-30 EBG (Engin Blindé du Génie) was a combat engineer vehicle derived from the AMX-30 chassis, equipped with a hydraulic excavator arm, dozer blade, and demolition charge launcher for breaching obstacles and mine clearing. Approximately 48 units were produced and entered French Army service in the 1980s to support armored units in offensive operations.^[4] The AMX-30 DCA provided mobile air defense support through a self-propelled anti-aircraft gun configuration. Mounted on the AMX-30 hull was a CAFL 78 turret armed with twin 30 mm DEFA 831A autocannons, capable of firing at 600 rounds per minute per gun with an effective range of 3,000 meters against low-flying aircraft.^[27] The system incorporated the Oeil Noir 1 Doppler radar for search and tracking, enabling all-weather operation and integration with battalion-level air defense networks. A total of 53 units were manufactured in the early 1980s for the French Army.^[27]

Artillery and missile variants

The AMX-30 AuF1, also known as the 155 GCT (Grande Cadence de Tir), is a self-propelled howitzer variant developed by GIAT Industries on the modified AMX-30 main battle tank chassis to provide mobile indirect fire support for French Army units. It mounts a 155 mm/39-caliber CN155-155 F1 howitzer in a turret equipped with a semi-automatic 12-round autoloader for shells and charges, enabling a burst rate of up to six rounds in 45 seconds and a sustained rate of four rounds per minute. The system carries 42 projectiles internally, including high-explosive, base-bleed, and smoke rounds, with an effective range of 23 km using standard ammunition and up to 30 km with base-bleed shells. Production began in 1977, with approximately 250-273 units delivered to the French Army by 1993, replacing the towed Mk F3 155 mm howitzer.^[28]^[29]^[30] Subsequent upgrades to the AuF1, designated as the AUF1-T or GCT standard starting in the late 1980s, incorporated digital fire control systems with inertial navigation for improved accuracy and reduced response time after repositioning, along with enhanced NBC protection and a more powerful Renault Mack E9 engine on the AMX-30B2 chassis. These modifications extended the maximum range to 40 km using extended-range full-bore base-bleed (ERFB-BB) ammunition and a longer L52 barrel option in later variants, while maintaining compatibility with NATO-standard 155 mm rounds. A total of 94 upgraded AUF1-T units were produced for the French Army from 1988 onward, with the system seeing combat in the Gulf War and Bosnian operations.^[28]^[31]^[32] The AMX-30R Roland was a self-propelled surface-to-air missile system based on the AMX-30 chassis, armed with the Roland missile for low-to-medium altitude air defense. It featured a twin launcher with radar guidance, capable of engaging aircraft at ranges up to 6 km. Approximately 183 units were produced starting in 1977 for the French Army's air defense regiments.^[4] The Pluton variant adapted the AMX-30R chassis—a reinforced version of the base AMX-30 platform—for launching the Pluton short-range ballistic missile, serving as France's primary tactical nuclear delivery system during the Cold War. The Pluton missile featured inertial guidance for a circular error probable of 150 m, a single-stage solid-propellant rocket motor, and a range of 17-120 km, with a launch weight of 2,423 kg, length of 7.64 m, and diameter of 0.65 m. It carried a nuclear warhead with a selectable yield of 15-25 kt, weighing approximately 500 kg. The French Army deployed 30 such launchers across five regiments from 1974 until decommissioning in 1993, amid post-Cold War arms reductions, with transporter-erector-launcher vehicles enabling rapid setup and firing.^[33]^[34]^[35]

Export and upgraded variants

The AMX-32 was developed as a heavier export prototype of the AMX-30, weighing 38 tons and featuring a 120 mm smoothbore gun along with spaced armor enhancements based on the AMX-30 B2 model.^[4] It underwent testing from 1975 to 1980 but was never produced due to lack of interest from potential buyers.^[4] Several export variants were adapted for specific environmental and operational needs. The AMX-30S, supplied to Saudi Arabia, incorporated modifications for desert operations, including sand shields, a downrated engine to 600 horsepower, and simplified systems to handle sandy conditions.^[36]^[19] In Spain, the locally produced AMX-30E received upgrades in the late 1980s, including improved electronics, a fire control system from Hughes, an 850 horsepower engine, new transmission, and explosive reactive armor to extend service life.^[17] Qatar operated versions of the AMX-30 equipped with TOW anti-tank missiles for enhanced anti-armor capabilities.^[4] The AMX-30H bridgelayer, featuring a scissor-type folding bridge 22 meters long and 3.1 meters wide with a 50-tonne capacity spanning gaps up to 20 meters, was produced in 12 units exclusively for Saudi Arabia.^[37] Export efforts in the 1970s faced setbacks, with unsuccessful attempts to sell the AMX-30 to India and Australia, where competing designs ultimately prevailed.^[4] Post-Cold War modernizations focused on survivability and targeting. Greece upgraded its AMX-30 fleet to the AMX-30G standard in the 2000s, adding explosive reactive armor, a 120 mm gun refit, and thermal sights to improve night fighting and protection against anti-tank threats.^[4]

Production and procurement

Domestic production

The AMX-30 main battle tank and its variants were manufactured at the Atelier de Construction de Roanne (Centre de Roanne), operated by GIAT Industries (now Nexter), France's primary facility for armored vehicle production. Serial production commenced in 1966 following the completion of prototypes in the early 1960s, with the first deliveries to the French Army occurring that year. The modular chassis design of the AMX-30 facilitated efficient assembly and adaptation for various roles, enabling the production of combat, engineering, artillery, and support variants on the same base platform. Over the production run, which extended into the 1990s with the completion of the last engineering variants in 1993, approximately 2,400 vehicles including all variants were built for domestic use by the French Army.^[3]^[38]^[4] The powerpack, including the Hispano-Suiza HS-110 12-cylinder multi-fuel diesel engine producing 680-720 horsepower, was integrated into the supply chain at Roanne, with components sourced domestically to support national industrial capacity. Production rates peaked at around 20 vehicles per month in the late 1960s before stabilizing at an average of 90-100 units annually during the 1970s and 1980s to meet French Army requirements. In the mid-1980s, the unit cost for a new AMX-30 B2 base model was approximately 8 million French francs (equivalent to about $1.1 million USD at contemporary exchange rates), reflecting investments in enhanced transmission and fire control systems.^[3]^[4]^[38] Lifecycle management involved significant mid-life upgrades, particularly the conversion to the AMX-30 B2 standard starting in 1979, which addressed transmission reliability issues and incorporated improved night vision and fire control. The 1985 procurement plan called for 271 new B2s and refurbishment of 730 existing AMX-30s at about 6 million French francs per vehicle, with a total cost of 8 billion francs; ultimately, 166 new B2s were delivered and 493 refurbished. This extended operational viability into the late 20th century, with the AMX-30 series serving as France's primary main battle tank until the introduction of the Leclerc in 1992. Production and support activities wound down by the early 2000s, though some variants remained in limited reserve roles until around 2010.^[38]^[3]

Export sales

The AMX-30 achieved significant export success during the 1970s and 1980s, with major procurement deals to several nations seeking modern main battle tanks. Saudi Arabia was a primary customer, acquiring 290 AMX-30S variants adapted for desert operations under the Palmier Contract between 1973 and 1979.^[9] This sale formed part of broader French-Saudi arms agreements, including a $3.5 billion pact signed in 1978 that encompassed tanks, aircraft, and other equipment.^[39] Greece followed as the first export customer in 1969, purchasing 190 AMX-30B units along with 14 AMX-30D armored recovery vehicles to bolster its armored forces during the Cold War era.^[4] Spain secured 299 units overall, beginning with 19 imported from France in 1970 and transitioning to local co-production of approximately 280 at the Santa Bárbara factory under a licensing agreement that facilitated technology transfer and reduced costs.^[9] Overall, exports totaled around 1,000 main battle tank units to more than a dozen countries, including Qatar (24 AMX-30S), the United Arab Emirates (64), Venezuela (81), Chile (21), and Cyprus (52), generating substantial revenue for French industry—estimated in the billions of dollars when adjusted for inflation across multiple packages.^[9] These sales often involved customized variants, such as desert-adapted models with sand filters and modified suspensions for Middle Eastern buyers. Co-production arrangements, like Spain's, helped mitigate foreign exchange issues and build local maintenance capabilities, though they required extensive offset commitments including joint ventures and skills training. In Qatar's case, procurement of 24 AMX-30S in the late 1970s included offset requirements mandating technology transfers and local economic investments to offset the deal's value.^[40] Export challenges emerged in the 1980s and beyond, as the AMX-30 faced stiff competition from more advanced designs like the German Leopard 2, which offered superior armor and firepower, limiting further sales to emerging markets.^[41] Offset demands in Gulf states, such as those tied to Qatar's purchases, imposed long-term industrial obligations on French firms, including co-development of support infrastructure. Recent developments include upgrade programs for existing fleets; Cyprus, operating 52 AMX-30B2s acquired in 1988 and later, considered modernization packages in 2023 to enhance electronics, engines, and armor through Greek partnerships, though no transfers of surplus AMX-30s to Ukraine occurred as part of post-2022 aid efforts by 2025.^[42]

Operational history

French Army service

The AMX-30 entered service with the French Army in 1967, initially equipping units of the 1st Armored Division as the primary main battle tank designed for high mobility in European theater operations.^[43] By 1975, it had become the standard vehicle across armored brigades, replacing older models like the AMX-13 and forming the backbone of France's ground forces structure during the latter Cold War period.^[43] Its lightweight design and powerful 720 hp engine enabled rapid maneuvers, supporting the French doctrine of fluid, offensive armored warfare.^[44] Training for AMX-30 crews took place at key facilities including the Canjuers and Mourmelon camps, where regiments conducted live-fire exercises, tactical drills, and crew familiarization to emphasize speed and coordination in brigade-level operations.^[45]^[46] Annual maneuvers at these sites focused on rapid deployment scenarios, simulating high-tempo advances across varied terrain to hone the tank's role in combined arms formations.^[44] In peacetime, the AMX-30 fulfilled deterrence roles along the German border as part of France's forward-deployed forces, maintaining combat readiness against potential Warsaw Pact incursions during the Cold War.^[44] French armored units equipped with the tank participated in NATO drills, including exercises that tested interoperability and rapid reinforcement capabilities within the alliance's European defense framework.^[2] Logistically, the AMX-30's multi-fuel HS-110 engine demanded careful management, with road fuel consumption around 190 liters per 100 km and significantly higher rates in cross-country conditions due to its emphasis on speed over endurance.^[47] Maintenance was scheduled at regular intervals, typically every 1,000 km, to ensure operational reliability in brigade sustainment, supported by dedicated recovery variants like the AMX-30 D.^[44] The AMX-30 was progressively withdrawn from active French Army service starting in the 1990s, fully retired by 2011 as the Leclerc replaced it in armored roles, marking the end of over four decades of frontline duty.^[48] A ceremonial farewell parade featuring the tank occurred in 2008, honoring its contributions to national defense.^[49]

International deployments

The AMX-30 was employed by several export customers in non-combat roles, including border security, joint exercises, and peacekeeping operations, often supported by French military training programs. In Saudi Arabia, the Royal Saudi Land Forces received approximately 290 AMX-30S desert-adapted variants between 1979 and 1989, which were integrated into armored brigades for routine patrols along the kingdom's borders during the 1980s.^[9] French military advisors, numbering around 450, provided extensive training to Saudi crews through dedicated armored schools established as part of the arms sales agreements.^[50] ^[51] The Hellenic Army incorporated 190 AMX-30 tanks into its structure starting in the 1970s, utilizing them in joint military exercises with Cyprus amid ongoing tensions on the island during the 1990s.^[52] These included the annual "Nikiforos" maneuvers in 1999, which involved armored elements transferred from Greek surplus to bolster Cypriot National Guard capabilities.^[53] Spain's Ejército de Tierra operated 299 AMX-30EM variants from the 1970s onward, assigning them to armored units responsible for territorial defense in the North African enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla near the Moroccan border, where they participated in joint training maneuvers to enhance regional security coordination.^[54] ^[9] French forces deployed upgraded AMX-30B2 Brenus variants, equipped with reactive armor for urban environments, in United Nations peacekeeping missions in Lebanon during the 1990s as part of UNIFIL operations to monitor ceasefires and support stability.^[1] French-led training initiatives for AMX-30 operators extended to Gulf states, including Qatar (with 24 AMX-30S units) and the United Arab Emirates (with 64 tanks), through bilateral military cooperation programs that involved joint exercises and technical instruction to build operational proficiency.^[9] ^[55]

Combat engagements

During the Athens Polytechnic uprising in November 1973, Greek military forces employed an AMX-30 tank to crash through the main gates of the Athens Polytechnic School, facilitating the suppression of student protests against the ruling military junta.^[56]^[57] This action marked one of the earliest operational uses of the AMX-30 in a domestic security role, though the vehicle sustained no reported structural damage beyond minor impacts from the gate breach.^[58] In the 1991 Gulf War, the French Army's 6th Light Armored Division deployed approximately 50 AMX-30 B2 main battle tanks as part of Operation Daguet during Operation Desert Storm. These tanks supported coalition advances across the Kuwaiti and Iraqi deserts, providing armored reconnaissance and fire support against Iraqi positions with their 105 mm CN-105-F1 guns and high mobility over open terrain. The AMX-30 B2s encountered minimal direct tank-on-tank engagements, focusing instead on suppressing artillery and infantry threats, and suffered no combat losses throughout the operation. Qatari forces also deployed their AMX-30S tanks during the Gulf War, notably participating in the Battle of Khafji in late January 1991. Qatari AMX-30s engaged Iraqi T-55 and T-62 tanks, contributing to the repulsion of the Iraqi incursion into Saudi territory, with several Iraqi vehicles destroyed and minimal Qatari losses reported.^[3] Saudi Arabian forces utilized AMX-30S variants along the Yemen border during the ongoing Houthi–Saudi Arabian conflict starting in 2015, primarily for defensive patrols and border security operations against Houthi incursions.^[59] These deployments highlighted the tank's role in arid environments but also exposed limitations, as the lightly armored design proved susceptible to anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) and improvised attacks in contested areas.^[60] By 2019, several Saudi AMX-30S units had been reported destroyed or disabled in ambushes involving drones and ATGMs, underscoring vulnerabilities in prolonged low-intensity conflicts. Overall, the AMX-30 demonstrated strong performance in open desert warfare, leveraging its 65 km/h top speed and agile handling for rapid maneuvers and flanking actions, as seen in the Gulf War. However, its thin armor—offering only about 80 mm equivalent protection on the hull front—rendered it particularly vulnerable to rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) and ATGMs in urban or close-quarters fighting, where side and rear aspects could be easily exploited by infantry.^[60]

Operators

Current operators

As of 2025, the AMX-30 and its variants continue to serve in limited capacities with a handful of nations, primarily in reserve or secondary roles as main battle tanks are phased out in favor of more modern systems like the Leopard 2 or Leclerc. These fleets are often maintained for training, territorial defense, or rapid response, with upgrades focused on fire control and mobility rather than comprehensive overhauls. Cyprus operates approximately 52 AMX-30B2 tanks in reserve, having upgraded them during the 2010s to enhance their suitability for border defense amid ongoing tensions with Turkey.^[61] These vehicles supplement the Cypriot National Guard's T-80U fleet and remain operational despite plans for replacement by French Leclerc tanks.^[62] Qatar maintains about 30 upgraded AMX-30S tanks in active service with its National Guard, originally procured in the 1970s and 1980s and modernized for desert operations.^[63] These light tanks complement Qatar's Leopard 2A7+ main force and are used for rapid intervention and patrol duties. Saudi Arabia operates approximately 290 AMX-30S tanks, originally acquired in the 1970s and 1980s, primarily in storage or reserve roles following losses in Yemen operations and transition to M1 Abrams.^[18] In the United Arab Emirates, roughly 20 AMX-30 variants remain in limited reserve use, supported by ongoing maintenance contracts with French firm KNDS to ensure operational readiness.^[64] These units, exported in the 1980s, are held for secondary roles pending full transition to advanced platforms like the Leclerc XLR. Venezuela maintains approximately 80 AMX-30 tanks in limited service, originally acquired in the 1970s and upgraded with extended fuel tanks and improved firepower, with recent efforts to secure spare parts as of 2025.^[65] Overall, AMX-30 operators are transitioning to newer main battle tanks, relegating the AMX-30 to backup status due to its age and vulnerabilities against contemporary threats.^[1]

Former operators

France retired the AMX-30 main battle tank in the early 2000s, with the transition to the Leclerc beginning in the 1990s as part of modernization efforts by the French Army.^[4] Approximately 200 remaining vehicles were either donated to allied nations or scrapped following the phase-out.^[18] Greece acquired 190 AMX-30 tanks in the 1970s, which were phased out in the early 1990s and partially transferred to Cyprus, with the remainder retired or used for parts. Spain phased out its AMX-30EM1 tanks during the 1990s and 2000s as part of the Programa Coraza 2000 initiative, replacing them with Leopard 2A4 and later Leopard 2E main battle tanks acquired between 1995 and 2008.^[66] Iraq's small number of AMX-30 AuF1 self-propelled guns, acquired for artillery support, suffered heavy losses during the 1991 Gulf War and subsequent conflicts, with surviving remnants scrapped or destroyed after the 2003 invasion.^[67] Tunisia acquired an unknown number of ex-Saudi AMX-30S in the 1990s for armored forces but retired them by the 2020s in favor of other systems. Other former operators include Chile, which retired its 21 AMX-30 tanks in the 2010s upon acquiring second-hand Leopard 2A4s starting in 2007.^[68] Globally, numerous AMX-30 vehicles have been decommissioned by 2025 across these nations, reflecting broader fleet modernizations.^[18]

References

[1]
AMX-30 - Army Recognition
The AMX-30 is powered by a Hispano-Suiza HS-110 diesel engine delivering 720 horsepower at 2,600 rpm.
[2]
AMX-30: France Built a 'Heavy Armor' Tank to Go to War with Russia
Aug 4, 2025 · Designed to operate on European battlefields and counter massed Soviet armored formations, the AMX-30 was lighter than many other tanks of its ...
[3]
AMX-30 (Main battle tank) - Army Guide
AMX-30 series MBTs were used by France, Saudi Arabia and Qatar during operations conducted early in 1991 to retake Kuwait following its invasion by Iraq in ...
[4]
Main Battle Tank AMX-30
AMX-30 specifications (1973). Dimensions (l-w-h):, 6.15 oa x 2.42 x 2.24 m (20.2 x 7.1 x 7.4 in). Total weight, battle ready: 36 Tons (26000 ibs). Crew : 4 ...
[5]
France (Cold War) - Tank Encyclopedia
The only medium tank of the French army for 30+ years, the AMX-30 suffered probably to a contest between this model and the German Leopard, which saw the ...Missing: doctrine WWII
[6]
https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/coldwar/france/
[7]
Meng 1/35 AMX-30B Kit First Look - Cybermodeler
The first prototype was completed in 1960. The AMX-30 was formally finalized in 1963 and went into production in 1966. In 1967, it entered service with the ...
[8]
AMX 30 - GlobalSecurity.org
Apr 20, 2019 · The AMX-30 body is welded out of rolled armor sheets; the turret is one piece cast and streamlined. Main armament is the French 105-mm ...
[9]
AMX 30
Jun 19, 1999 · effective range, approximately 2000 m. auxiliary Armament, 1 gun of 20 mm twinned with the gun for ground shooting, with possibility of ...
[10]
AMX 30 AP, parcours route Bourges - Satory ... - ImagesDéfense
AMX 30 AP, parcours route Bourges - Satory (essais, terrain, tirs). Réalisateur(s) : Inconnu.<|separator|>
[11]
[PDF] A.J.Barker - Porsche cars history
des Etudes de Fabrication d' Armement, now Direction. Technique des Armements ... This sleeve is similar to those fitted to the guns carried by the AMX-30 and ...
[12]
IN 0535 EDITION C LESSON 1 TANK IDENTIFICATION
Apr 27, 2005 · Produced since 1963 by the French as a replacement for the American M47 tank, the AMX 30 was built with a 12-cylinder multi-fuel engine. The AMX ...Missing: initial | Show results with:initial
[13]
[PDF] Tanks and Armored Troops - DTIC
( Leopard AMX-30), as has already been pointed out. the armor plating has been reduced in order to decrease the weight. 6. The other direction, improving the ...
[14]
AMX-30 DCA Incorrect Engine Power - Gaijin.net // Issues
ISSUE. The AMX 30 "Pays chauds" (Hot climate) was a variant of the AMX 30 which was more suited to desert conditions. Compared to the standard AMX 30 B ...
[15]
AMX-30 Main Battle Tank (France)
In July 1963, the French Army adopted the tank as a replacement for the M47 and production commenced in 1966, the AMX-30 entering service in 1967. Spain has ...
[16]
AMX-30 Main Battle Tank - Gary's Place
Dec 29, 2006 · The missile has a range up to 120 km, and can be fitted with a tactical nuclear warhead of either 15 or 25 kilotons.Missing: 2000m | Show results with:2000m<|separator|>
[17]
AMX-30
### Summary of AMX-30 Main Battle Tank
[18]
[PDF] AMX 30 - Archived 1/97 - Forecast International
Jan 1, 1997 · As of early 1997, the production of the AMX. 30 tank has been dormant and the tank is no longer marketed but the line remains available for new ...
[19]
AMX-30 EM2 (Main battle tank) - Army Guide
The Spanish tanks are almost identical to the French models but have an MG3S 7.62 mm machine gun for the commander and other minor differences.Missing: details | Show results with:details
[20]
AMX-30 B2 (Main battle tank) - Army Guide
In the cupola, the commander is provided with an M591.02 prism head and an OB-49 periscope for firing the 20 mm cannon (air targets) and the 7.62 mm machine gun ...
[21]
[PDF] WORLDWIDE TANK FIRE-CONTROL SYSTEMS - CIA
By June 1979 the French Army had ordered the AMX-30B2 version with a new fire- control system based on the COTAC M581 fire- control devices. The COTAC system is ...
[22]
AMX-30: A Second Look - Mechanized Warfare - Sturgeon's House
Apr 5, 2015 · The height from floor of the turret to the ceiling must be tall enough for the loader to perform their job (ideally standing, but in some cases ...Missing: welded steel<|separator|>
[23]
Decal FORAD opleidingscentrum. AMX-30 B2, AMX ... - 1001Hobbies
Rating 4.5 (29) FORAD opleidingscentrum. AMX-30 B2, AMX-30 B2 BRENNUS en VAB 4x4 APC. [AMX-30B2 Franse Main Battle Tank]. Star Decals Referentie : 35-C1017.<|separator|>
[24]
In Development: AMX-30B2 Brenus - Armored Warfare
Jan 16, 2025 · There were two sources of the AMX-30B2 tanks. First, 166 AMX-30B2 tanks were built from scratch starting from 1981. Secondly, 493 older AMX ...Missing: specifications credible
[25]
AMX-30D (Repair and recovery vehicle) - Army Guide
The main winch has a maximum capacity of 35,000 kg and is provided with 90 m of 34 mm diameter cable while the auxiliary winch has 3,500 kg capacity and is ...
[26]
AMX-30 D / Recovery tank for VBCI. - Military Photo Report
Jan 27, 2014 · With a full crew of 4 men, and armed with a AANF1 7.62mm machine gun. The AMX-30 D is a recovery vehicle designed on the basis of battle tank ...
[27]
https://weaponsystems.net/system/114-AMX-30%2BDCA
[28]
AMX-30 DCA - Weaponsystems.net
The AMX-30 DCA is a French self-propelled anti-aircraft gun, based on the AMX-30 tank chassis, with two 30mm autocannons and a radar.Missing: specifications | Show results with:specifications
[29]
155 GCT (Self-propelled howitzer) - Army Guide
The 155 mm GCT basically consists of a modified AMX-30 MBT chassis fitted with a new turret armed with a 155 mm gun and an automatic loading system. The vehicle ...
[30]
AuF1 - War Thunder Wiki
The decision to develop a self-propelled howitzer dates back to 1969, with the first prototype produced in 1972. By 1979, seven prototypes and six pre-series ...
[31]
AMX 30 AuF1 – 50 years of service of the mighty French self ...
It is the lightest and smallest vehicle with such a heavy armament, while the main weapon still does not allow to hit targets at a distance of more than 20 km.Missing: adoption | Show results with:adoption
[32]
AUF-1 Canon de 155 Automoteur modèle F1 - GlobalSecurity.org
Feb 21, 2019 · The new inertial fire control devices on the 155 AU F1 reduced its vulnerability and time to respond after movement. The installation of a ...
[33]
European artillery options - Euro-sd
Jun 28, 2024 · The 155 mm L52 barrel and has a range of around 30 km with standard HE rounds, or 40 km Extended Range Full-Bore—Base Bleed (ERFB-BB) rounds.<|separator|>
[34]
Pluton - France Nuclear Forces - Nuke
The Pluton missile was 7.64 m long and had a body diameter of 0.65 m. The missile had a launch weight of 2423 kg and the single stage solid propellant motor ...Missing: details | Show results with:details
[35]
Pluton | Missile Threat - CSIS
Apr 23, 2024 · The Pluton was a French tactical ballistic missile (SRBM) with a 120km range, carrying a 15-25 kT nuclear warhead, and was in service from 1974 ...Missing: variant | Show results with:variant
[36]
France's Nuclear Weapons - Development of the French Arsenal
May 1, 2001 · There were two yield variants - one with a 10 kt yield, and a high yield version of 25 kt. The warhead was relatively light, weighing about 500 ...
[37]
AMX-30 S (Main battle tank) - Army Guide
For desert operations the AMX-30S has been developed with the following modifications: the fitting of sand shields, reduction in the ratios of the gearbox ...Missing: variant filters
[38]
CHARS ET BATAILLE POLITICO-MILITAIRE - Le Monde
Nov 11, 1985 · Le projet de l'état-major est d'acheter 271 chars neufs AMX-30 B2 (au prix de 8 millions de francs pièce) et de transformer 730 chars AMX-30 en ...Missing: coût | Show results with:coût
[39]
Saudi, France in $3.5 Billion Arms Pact - Jewish Telegraphic Agency
Apr 3, 1978 · France and Saudi Arabia have signed arms contracts worth $3.5 billion providing for the purchase in France of planes, tanks, ...
[40]
AMX-30E - Wikipedia
Although the Leopard boasted greater armor than the AMX-30 ...
[41]
[PDF] The U.S. Arms Sales to the Gulf Cooperation Council States. - DTIC
The three main countries that have practiced offsets are Saudia Arabia, Kuwait, and. UAE. Those three countries have led the other three countries, Bahrain, ...
[42]
What was the thinking with Leopard I German tank and the French ...
Sep 21, 2021 · The AMX 30 was actually an export failure, as it was harder to maintain and less reliable than the Leopard without offering any meaningful ...
[43]
OPINION | The future of the National Guard's AMX-30B2 tanks
Jun 4, 2023 · The offer of the Greek company concerned improvements in all electronic systems, the engine, the navigation system and the armor along with the ...Missing: 2022 | Show results with:2022
[44]
Le char AMX 30 - Chemins de mémoire
Char AMX 30 © Pascal Waine - Musée des Blindés de Saumur. L'AMX 30 est la monture emblématique de l'arme blindée cavalerie des années 1970 et 1980 dont il ...Missing: entrée | Show results with:entrée
[45]
L'AMX 30, un char de bataille - TerreMag - Ministère des Armées
Le char de bataille de l'armée française se décline aussi à l'export avec notamment des versions destinées au Venezuela (AMX 30 V) et à l'Arabie Saoudite (AMX ...
[46]
Campagne de tirs d'AMX 30, d'AMX 13 et de missiles antichar SS-11 ...
Campagne de tirs d'AMX 30, d'AMX 13 et de missiles antichar SS-11 au camp de Canjuers. Photographe(s) : Pierre Bideault , Roger L'Hostis. Ajouter à un albumMissing: entraînement Mourmelon
[47]
Derrière le MCO des parcs d'entraînement, un partenariat inédit ...
Mar 29, 2021 · ... AMX-30. Une décennie de partenariat industriel. L'aventure de Nexter à Mourmelon démarre il y a près de 10 ans. À l'époque, l'armée de Terre ...
[48]
Exposition du musée des blindés de Saumur - Retromobile
Jan 13, 2023 · Le CHAR AMX 30 · Service : 1957 à 2011 · Production : 3 571 exemplaires · Longueur : 6,60 m Largeur : 3,10 m · Poids suivant la version : de 36 à 40 ...Missing: incluant | Show results with:incluant
[49]
Famille A.M.X. 30. | Service historique de la Défense
Administration centrale : cabinet du délégué général pour l'Armement (1957-1969). ... Etudes Matériels Terrestres. Munitions d'Artillerie. Munitions d'Artillerie.
[50]
EBG : Engin Blindé du Génie - Ministère des Armées
L'engin blindé du génie (EBG) est un char du génie monté sur le même châssis que les chars AMX-30B2. L'Engin Blindé du Génie (EBG), qui réalise des travaux ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[51]
Saudi Arabia Faces the 1980s - jstor
France; additionally, the French agreed to sell advanced AMX-30 tanks for three Saudi armored brigades, and to supply 450 military advisors to train new.
[52]
AMX-30C1 Shahine (1975) - Tank-AFV
To provide training for these, an armored school was opened in Saudi Arabia, which was ran approximately by 2,000 French military advisors and trainers in the ...
[53]
Hellenic Army - Modernization - GlobalSecurity.org
Jun 30, 2021 · The AMX-30 is currently in reserve, as additional units are planned to be sold to Cyprus. Prior to entering service with the National Guard ...
[54]
Press Release Regarding the Nikiforos Military Exercise Held Jointly ...
The Greek Cypriot Administration and Greece have begun the yearly joint "Nikiforos" military exercise on 2 October 1999. This is a development raising ...
[55]
Spanish State and Kingdom of Spain (Cold War) - Tank Encyclopedia
May 22, 2023 · On June 22nd 1970, French and Spanish delegations reached an agreement permitting Spain to produce 180 AMX-30s and their ammunition under ...
[56]
https://www.nytimes.com/1973/11/17/archives/troops-in-athens-move-on-campus-to-quell-protest-use-tank-to.html
[57]
TROOPS IN ATHENS MOVE ON CAMPUS TO QUELL PROTEST
Nov 17, 1973 · Greek troops using a tank crash through iron gates of Athens Polytechnic Univ on Nov 17 to help police dislodge some 2000 students who had ...Missing: AMX- | Show results with:AMX-
[58]
Athens, Nov. 14-17, 1973: the Polytechnic Student Revolt Against ...
Feb 24, 2020 · As the negotiations continue, an AMX 30 tank located opposite the central gate backtracks and crashes into it. The gate is torn down and ...
[59]
Greek Students Riot on November 17, Commemorate Those Killed ...
Dec 2, 2022 · An AMX 30 Tank sent by the government of the military junta into the gates of Athens Polytechnic University on Nov. 17, 1973. 24 civilians were ...
[60]
Leaked Docs Show Saudis 'Overwhelmingly Dependent' on Western ...
Apr 15, 2019 · They have lined the Saudi-Yemen border with American Abrams and French AMX 30 tanks, reinforced by at least five types of Western-made artillery ...<|separator|>
[61]
AMX-30 - Battle Tank (MBT) - Military Factory
Detailing the technical specifications, development, and operational history of the AMX-30 Main Battle Tank (MBT) including pictures.
[62]
Overview of the Cypriot Armed Forces - Defense Advancement
Dec 24, 2024 · The armored units operate T-80U main battle tanks and AMX-30 tanks, while the artillery units are equipped with BM-21 Grad multiple rocket ...
[63]
France might offer Leclerc MBTs to the Republic of Cyprus to ...
The Leclerc entered service with the French Army in 1991, replacing the AMX-30 fleet in its armored units. Between 2000 and 2003, 388 diesel-powered Leclerc ...Missing: combat size phased
[64]
Germany Is Giving Ukraine Old Leopard 1 Tanks
Feb 12, 2023 · Large numbers of AMX-30s were retired by France (1,100), Greece (190), and Spain (299). Some of these tanks may be fit for reactivation. Outside ...
[65]
Israel's Strike Came After Qatar Hugely Expanded Its Military - Forbes
Sep 10, 2025 · On the ground, it had only 30 old AMX-30 tanks, also French-made. Had Saudi Arabia's larger and more advanced military launched an invasion, ...
[66]
KNDS France: 30 years of expertise for the Emirates armed forces ...
Feb 20, 2025 · KNDS France: 30 years of expertise for the Emirates armed forces and the local industry. February 20, 2025 Exhibitions, IDEX, Land Forces. For ...
[67]
Saudi Losses in Yemen War Exposed by US Tank Deal - Defense One
Aug 9, 2016 · The Saudi military is believed to have lost some of its 400-plus Abrams tanks in Yemen, where it is fighting Iranian-backed Houthi separatists.
[68]
Spanish army extends maintenance contract with the UTE for its ...
May 20, 2020 · The Spanish army replaced its US-made M60 Patton tanks and French-made AMX-30s with the Leopard 2 between 1995 and 2008. Previously, the Spanish ...
[69]
155mm GTC AUF-1 - Tank Encyclopedia
Oct 31, 2017 · This 155mm self-propelled howitzer was developed in the 1970s, based on the AMX-30 chassis. It was battle-tested in Iraq and Bosnia.
[70]
Cold War Chilean Armor Archives - Tank Encyclopedia
The Chilean Army could only count on 21 modern tanks, the AMX-30, purchased from France. In fact, the order had been for 80 vehicles, but due to the embargo ...