RENK Group has produced its 4,000th HSWL 354 transmission, marking a major production milestone for one of the core mobility systems behind the Leopard 2 main battle tank.
The unit was completed at RENK’s Augsburg facility, where the company formally marked the milestone with senior executives and representatives from Germany’s defense procurement agency.
The HSWL 354 hydromechanical transmission has powered Leopard 2 tanks and related armored platforms for more than four decades, handling steering, reversing, and propulsion under demanding operational conditions.
RENK described the system as one of its most enduring defense products, continuously refined to meet evolving requirements from NATO operators.
“Every single transmission stands for precision, reliability, and the strength of our teams,” RENK COO Emmerich Schiller said.
Leopard 2’s European Footprint
The HSWL 354 transmission is closely tied to the Leopard 2 main battle tank, which remains in service with Germany and multiple NATO allies as one of Europe’s principal armored platforms.
Germany operates upgraded versions under ongoing modernization programs aimed at improving protection, fire control, and mobility while extending service life.
Other NATO operators, including Poland, Finland, and Denmark, have expanded or upgraded their Leopard 2 fleets in recent years as part of broader efforts to strengthen armored capabilities and standardize equipment across allied forces.
