Leopard AS1 - Leopard in Australian Service

The first modern tank acquired by the Australian Army in the post-Second World War era was the Centurion, which began arriving in late 1951. The Centurion was a very formidable vehicle and was to remain in service for 26 years. But before long, Centurions became difficult to maintain. In 1974, a fierce competition of engineering and design gave rise to the purchase of the Leopard AS1, a modification geared specifically to suit Australians needs and requirements. This family of vehicles went on to serve the RAAC for thirty years.