This morning, at the Cecchignola Military Compound, in the presence of the Italian Army and Iveco – Oto Melara Consortium (CIO) leaders, the delivery ceremony of the first upgraded Ariete main battle tank known as “C2” was held. The system is the first of the 90 vehicles that will receive a technological update to meet the current operational needs of the Armed Forces. The program, which also includes the acquisition of ten-year logistical support for all vehicles, is in line with the renewal process of the trucked vehicles started by the Italian Army in recent years.
The Chief of Staff of the Italian Army, Liutenant General Carmine Masiello, in his speech stated: “Today’s ceremony represents a crucial stage in a continuous and significant evolution: the delivery of the Ariete C2 tank, a symbol of innovation and collaboration between the Army and the defense industry. It is not just a technical milestone, but it represents the confirmation of a shared commitment to grow and face the complex challenges of the future together. We are experiencing a phase of maximum synergy and effective dialogue. The key to this relationship is truth and transparency: only through open, aware, and responsible interaction can we tackle difficulties and find quick and effective solutions. Deterrence is a prerequisite for security and the Armed Forces are an irreplaceable bulwark to protect our freedom and our values. I thank all those who have contributed to this project to enhance the armored capabilities of the Army, with a view to making it an increasingly credible tool ready to serve the Nation. Let us continue to work side by side, because our success is the result of a collective commitment”.
CIO President, Claudio Catalano, emphasized: “The Ariete modernization program has allowed the Italian defense industry to rebuild a strategic expertise in the tracked vehicle sector.
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Download free sample pages More informationThe investments initiated in recent years and still ongoing are leading to a steady increase in the industrial capacity associated with the Ariete program, enabling not only a much-needed technological leap but also a significant extension of the platform operational life.”
The Ariete upgrade includes several improvements related to mobility, lethality and Command and Control systems.
As for the vehicular part, the engine displacement was increased, an electronically controlled common rail injection system was adopted and the supercharged system was updated.
Engine power increased by 20%, reaching 1500 HP, and the significant increase in torque at low rpm allowed for class-leading vehicle performance in the typical pivot, launch and re-start maneuvers.
The increased weight of the vehicle and the increased engine power and torque also required significant upgrade on the gearbox and final drive.
The braking system was replaced with a more advanced and effective one which also addressed obsolescence issues related to an overseas supply chain.
The Ariete C1 tracks were also replaced with a model specifically developed to ensure greater mobility thanks to a larger footprint and to a significant reduction in crew vibration compared to other platforms on the market.
Greater interoperability, precision and safety are guaranteed by the new turret. The turret now integrates state-of-the-art systems that make it equivalent to the latest-generation tanks.
The hydraulic servos have been replaced with more reliable and high-performance electric drive systems and the fire control system has been completely replaced with a digital fire control system, capitalized on the experience gained on the Centauro II, which integrates stabilized digital optronics equipped with latest-generation TV and IR cameras.
The interoperability of the Ariete C2 tank has been ensured through the introduction of the new C2D N EVO Command and Control system and the four-channel SDR (Software Defined Radio) and satellite communication vectors that interface with modern digital intercom systems.
The tank Commander and Gunner’s stations have been redesigned to ensure maximum ergonomics and are based on human-machine interfaces equipped with multifunctional screens.
The pilot’s station has been significantly updated thanks to the introduction of a new digital panel that also integrates the navigation interface, interconnected with the Command and Control system.
In the Ariete C2, crew safety is entrusted to a new fire-fighting and anti-explosion system.
The Ariete modernization program has allowed the Italian defense industry to rebuild strategic expertise in the tracked vehicle sector and will enable the Italian Army to deploy the required armored capability within the required timeframe and to ensure the adequate continuity between the systems currently in service and those that will be the subject of specific acquisitions in the future.
Previous and ongoing industrial investments are leading to a steady increase in industrial capacity related to the Ariete program which will be crucial for Italy to achieve the necessary level of deterrence envisioned by our country and our allies over the next three to five years.
