At the end of last week, the Italian Army announced the reception of the first of its 90 Ariete tanks upgraded to the new “C2” version. This modernization is part of a comprehensive plan to enhance the force’s armored capabilities, which also includes a ten-year logistical support package. The newly delivered tank was received at the Cecchignola Military Complex on the outskirts of Rome during a ceremony attended by representatives of the armed forces and the Iveco – Oto Melara Consortium (CIO).
Among the official remarks made at the event, notable were those of the Chief of the Army General Staff, Lieutenant General Carmine Masiello: “Today’s ceremony represents a crucial milestone in an ongoing 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 only a technical achievement, but also the confirmation of a shared commitment to grow and jointly address the complex challenges of the future (…) Deterrence is a prerequisite for security, and the Armed Forces are an irreplaceable bulwark to protect our freedom and values.”
CIO president Claudio Catalano stated: “The Ariete modernization program has enabled the Italian defense industry to rebuild its strategic expertise in the tracked vehicle sector. The investments made in recent years—and still ongoing—are steadily increasing the industrial capacity associated with the Ariete program, enabling not only a much-needed technological leap but also a significant extension of the platform’s service life.”
As for the details of the upgrades that bring the Ariete tanks to the C2 standard, significant improvements were made to the vehicle’s powerplant, which now delivers 1,500 hp—an increase of 20% over the previous version. To match this boost in power and the resulting additional weight, upgrades were also carried out on the transmission and gearbox, alongside the installation of a more effective braking system. The original tracks were replaced with a wider variant, improving mobility and reducing vibration levels compared to its predecessor.
In addition to these changes, the manufacturer also highlights the integration of “cutting-edge systems” in the new Ariete turret, bringing it “in line with next-generation tanks.” This includes the replacement of old hydraulic servomotors with more reliable electric drive systems, as well as the installation of a new digital fire control system, drawing on the design used in the Centauro II armored vehicles. This adds a stabilized digital optronic suite and next-generation infrared cameras.
To round out the extensive series of upgrades incorporated in the new Ariete C2, the tanks will feature a new C2D N EVO command and control system, as well as a four-channel SDR communication system compatible with the army’s current digital intercom systems. The driver’s station has also been redesigned with a new digital panel linked to the command system, and the tank’s protection has been improved with an updated fire suppression system.
Finally, it is worth noting that while the Italian Army continues to receive its upgraded Ariete C2 tanks, it also awaits developments regarding its future main battle tank. In this regard, it should be recalled that in June 2024, the army’s planned purchase of 132 new Leopard 2A8 tanks collapsed due to disagreements between the German firm KNDS and Italy’s Leonardo over technology transfer issues. This impasse led, a few months later, to a partnership between Leonardo and Rheinmetall to launch a new program, building on their existing collaboration for the army’s next-generation infantry fighting vehicle.
*Image credits: Italian Army
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