Argentine Army concludes contract with Impsa for TAM tank upgrade.

The Chief of the Cabinet of Ministers has approved an agreement between the Argentine Army and Impsa for the supply of side skirts as part of the TAM modernization project. The supply of these side skirts is expected to significantly reduce the 'spray' effect caused by dust generated by the running gear.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

TAM (Tanque Argentino Mediano) is a medium battle tank developed by Argentina. (Picture source: Argentina MoD)

This agreement, representing an investment of 3,141,952 dollars, includes the production of skirts (1,865,525 dollars), welding services (1,199,190 dollars), and the training and certification of four welders in armor (77,237 dollars). The project's timeline anticipates the gradual delivery of kits over the next four years: 21 kits in 2023, 19 in 2024, another 19 in 2025, and the final 12 in 2026.

These side skirts are designed to significantly reduce the spray effect caused by dust from the running gear. In addition to mitigating the visual impact, making the vehicle easily detectable at long distances, the skirts also help to decrease the thermal signature produced by the running gear.

Impsa (Industrias Metalúrgicas Pescarmona Sociedad Anónima) is an Argentine company operating in the engineering and construction sector, specializing in the production of heavy equipment for various industrial sectors. Founded in 1907, Impsa has evolved to become a leader in manufacturing equipment for renewable energy industries, particularly hydraulic and wind turbines. The company also has a presence in the infrastructure and engineering project sector, extending to international markets. Its involvement in defense projects, particularly in the modernization of military equipment such as combat tanks, demonstrates its versatility and technical expertise.

The TAM (Tanque Argentino Mediano) is a medium battle tank developed by Argentina in the 1970s. Designed to meet the specific needs of the Argentine Army, the TAM combines mobility, firepower, and protection, while being suitable for the varied geographies and climates of Argentina. The tank is equipped with a 105 mm main gun capable of firing a variety of ammunition, and several machine guns for close defense. Over the years, the TAM has undergone several modernizations to enhance its operational capabilities, including improvements in armor, sighting, and fire control systems, and night combat capabilities. These upgrades aim to extend the TAM's operational life and keep it competitive on the modern battlefield.

Argentina and Israel agreed in early 2021 to resume the TAM modernization project, a process expected to last between five and seven years. In 2022, an agreement was signed between the EA, the Ministry of Defense, and the Mendoza-based company Impsa for the modernization of the turret.

The main objectives of the modernization are to increase survival probabilities and response capabilities against threats, enable 360° target tracking, and facilitate day and night combat operations. The project also aims to enhance the crew's protection level; improve firing accuracy both stationary and in motion; prioritize the digitization of control and firing systems, and phase out the old hydraulic systems for turret movement. The plan involves the modernization of 74 tanks with an additional phase for 30 more units.