Italian MoD Awards Contract TO CIO for Renovation of Italian Army Ariete C1 Tanks.

ROME, Italy, August 8, 2023 — The Italian Defense Secretariat (SEGREDIFESA) has granted a major contract worth 848.8 million euros to the Iveco - Oto Melara consortium (CIO). The contract, announced by the Italian Terrestrial Armament Directorate (DAT), aims at the mid-life renovation of 90 Ariete C1 main battle tanks. Moreover, an option to extend this renovation to an additional 35 tanks is under consideration.
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A modernized version of the Italian-made C1 Ariete MBT Main Battle Tank.  (Picture source CIO)

Specialized defense site, Analisi Difesa, highlights a prior contract valued at 35 million euros that was awarded to CIO. This initial contract involved the creation and testing of the Ariete C2 version with three prototypes.

Originating in the 1980s, the Ariete was developed as a modern battle tank by OTO Melara for the Italian Army. It was intended as a successor to the older Leopard 1 tanks. By the end of the 1990s, the Ariete became a significant part of the Italian military's equipment list.

The Ariete tank showcases a powerful 120mm smoothbore gun, facilitating multiple ammunition types like the APFSDS and HEAT rounds. To enhance its defense against infantry and lightweight vehicles, it features a 7.62mm machine gun as both a coaxial weapon and a turret rooftop weapon.

Boasting strong protection, the Ariete employs a mix of composite and modular armor, guarding against various threats. Its interior includes spall liners for reduced injury risks from armor breaches and an advanced NBC protection system.

Notably, the Ariete C2, the modern version, will be powered by an MTCA V-12 turbo diesel engine, offering a heightened power-to-weight ratio. Given the integration of mine and IED protection kits, necessary adjustments will be made to its transmission and braking systems.

The turret of the Ariete C2 will utilize the knowledge CIO gained from the Centauro II program. While the 120mm L44 gun remains unchanged, an additional 12.7mm machine gun will be added. Enhanced features include an upgraded fire control system, a modern ballistic calculator, state-of-the-art optronic sensors, and the C2N EVO command and control system. Furthermore, it will have a VQ-1 SDR radio and SATCOM capability, ensuring seamless communication in battle scenarios.

This upgrade signifies Italy's commitment to maintaining a formidable ground force and signifies a substantial investment in their military's modern capabilities.

Italian army C1 Ariete MBT Main Battle Tank (Picture source Army Recognition)

Defense News August 2023