RE: Hobby Engine 1/16 Leopard Tank
The "wings" as you called them are on the real thing and do fold out. When the crew needs to remove the engine deck or remove the engine the turret is turned sideways. With the A5/A6 upgrade they found that the side armor on the turret still got in the way. It hinges out so when the turret is turned the armor can be swung out of the way and the motor change can be done.