In 2006, a Squadron of fifteen Leopard C2 main battle tanks fitted with Modular Expandable Armor System (MEXAS), a ceramic composite armour kit, deployed to Afghanistan for combat operations. During the Afghanistan mission the Leopard C2 MEXAS tanks were fitted with dozer blades, mine plows, and mine rollers. Over time the tanks received upgrades that included thermal covers, a cooling unit, and an electronic counter measures device. The tanks fought enemy forces, provided convoy protection, and supported Provincial Reconstruction Teams from December 2006 until they were withdrawn in July 2011. The Leopard C2 is expected to be retired from the Canadian Army and replaced by the new Canadian Leopard 2A4, 2A4M, and 2A6M between 2014 and 2015