The French Ministry of Armed Forces has contracted KNDS Ammo France to produce several thousand Shard next-generation kinetic rounds for the Leclerc modernization program.
Under the €100 million-plus framework agreement spanning seven years, initial batches of the APFSDS ammunition are expected by mid-2029. Eurenco will provide key energetic components for the production process.
Designed to ensure the Leclerc XLR remains combat-effective into the late 2030s, Shard introduces a more powerful tungsten penetrator and improved aerodynamic stability. The round’s enhanced speed is specifically intended to counter advanced armor and reduce the effectiveness of active protection systems.
