This simulation shows the new 3BM59 "Svinets-1" APFSDS-T fired from the Russian T-90 tank at range 800m targeting the turret composite armor of the German Leopard 2 tank. The 3BM59 entered service in 2016 which uses a new sabot design, and a new depleted uranium penetrator. Such a scenario might appear in the Russian-Ukrainian war in the next few weeks.
Depleted uranium (DU) is uranium with a lower content of the fissile isotope 235 U than natural uranium. Natural uranium contains about 0.72% 235 U, while the DU used by the U.S. Department of Defense contains 0.3% 235 U or less. The less radioactive and non-fissile 238 U constitutes the main component of depleted uranium. Uses of DU take advantage of its very high density of 19.1 grams per cubic centimeter (0.69 lb/cu in) (68.4% denser than lead).
The Leopard 2 is a third generation German main battle tank (MBT). Developed by Krauss-Maffei in the 1970s, the tank entered service in 1979 and replaced the earlier Leopard 1 as the main battle tank of the West German army. Various iterations of the Leopard 2 continue to be operated by the armed forces of Germany, as well as 13 other European countries, and several non-European states around the world, including Canada, Chile, Indonesia, and Singapore. Some operating states have licensed the Leopard 2 design for local production and domestic development.
