ROME — The Italian Army has officially received the first-of-90 upgraded Ariete C2 main battle tank during a ceremony held this morning at the Cecchignola Military Compound in Rome. The event marked a key milestone in Italy’s armored forces modernization effort and was attended by senior officials from both the Army and the Iveco – Oto Melara Consortium (CIO).
The Ariete C2 represents a major leap in the Italian Army’s tracked vehicle capabilities, incorporating upgrades in mobility, firepower, protection, and command-and-control systems. The program includes ten years of logistical support and aligns with the broader renewal strategy of Italian ground systems.
“This is not just a technical milestone,” said Lieutenant General Carmine Masiello, Chief of Staff of the Italian Army. “It’s the confirmation of a shared commitment to innovation and readiness in the face of complex global challenges. Deterrence is essential for security, and our Armed Forces remain a fundamental bulwark to defend our freedoms and values.”
Key Upgrades Enhance Performance and Survivability
Among the major improvements to the C2 variant is a new powerpack. The tank now features a 20% more powerful 1,500 HP engine with a modern electronically controlled common rail injection system and upgraded turbocharging. Torque at low RPM has been significantly increased, improving pivot, launch, and restart performance. The transmission, final drives, and braking systems have also been redesigned for better reliability and higher loads.
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The tank’s mobility is further enhanced by a newly developed track system that reduces vibration and increases ground contact, improving terrain handling and crew comfort.
The new turret integrates electric drive systems in place of hydraulic ones and is equipped with a modern digital fire control system derived from the Centauro II platform. This includes advanced optronics with stabilized TV and infrared sensors for improved target acquisition and engagement.
Digital Command Systems for Modern Warfare
A major highlight of the Ariete C2 upgrade is the integration of the C2D N EVO command-and-control suite. It features software-defined radios (SDR), satellite communication links, and digital intercom systems. The gunner and commander stations now feature ergonomic interfaces and multifunctional displays, while the pilot benefits from a new digital panel with integrated navigation.
Crew survivability has also been improved with a new automated fire suppression and anti-explosion system.
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CIO President Claudio Catalano emphasized the program’s industrial impact: “The Ariete modernization has enabled Italy to rebuild strategic capabilities in the tracked vehicle sector and significantly extend the platform’s operational life.”
The full fleet of 90 Ariete C2 tanks is expected to be delivered over the coming years, reinforcing Italy’s heavy armor capabilities at a time of increasing geopolitical uncertainty.
Javeria Sajid is an Aerospace Engineering student from NUST with a background in technology and a sharp focus on the global political landscape and defence innovation. She writes to make complex defence technologies understandable, and aspires to bridge journalism, policy, and engineering in her work.
