French DGA Selects SHARD Shell of KNDS for Leclerc Tanks

KNDS Ammo has secured an order from the Direction générale de l'armement (DGA) for several thousand new-generation SHARD fin-stabilized armor-piercing discarding sabot (APFSDS) projectiles.

According to KNDS, SHARD is fully compatible with all NATO-standard 120mm smoothbore platforms, including the Leclerc, Leopard 2, and M1 Abrams tanks. Designed with an innovative and optimized architecture, the projectile delivers enhanced accuracy and increased penetration against modern main battle tanks.

The company also highlighted that SHARD’s redesigned construction reduces barrel wear during firing, extending the service life of gun systems and improving overall operational sustainability.

The projectile’s performance was successfully validated during firing tests conducted on the guns of both the Leclerc and Leopard 2 tanks, confirming its high level of operational effectiveness under realistic conditions.