Argentine Army Plans to Have Ten Modernized TAM 2C-A2 Tanks by End of 2024.

The modernization program for the Argentine Medium Tank (TAM) has recently gained momentum after more than a decade since its launch. Intending to modernize a total of ten units by the end of the year, the TAM 2C-A2 has become one of the Argentine Army's priority programs, according to Zona Militar.
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Previous delivery of TAM 2C-A2 Argentine Main Battle Tanks. (Picture source: Argentine MoD)

In an interview with Zona Militar, General Carlos Alberto Presti, Chief of the General Staff of the Argentine Army, stated that the modernization of the TAM 2C-A2 is progressing with their personnel and resources. The Israeli company Elbit Systems is the primary supplier of components, although both national and foreign suppliers are also participating in the project. The progress of the program depends on the timely maintenance of the supply chain, and if deadlines are met, the Argentine Army will have ten modernized units by the end of the year.

General Presti emphasized the importance of the modernization process, describing it as beneficial for national defense, noting that it allows the development of unique skills and knowledge. This program also provides armored units with vehicles equipped with advanced technologies.

The TAM 2C-A2 program has led to proposals for updates to other vehicles in the armored family, such as the VCTP (Personnel Transport Combat Vehicle), the VCPC (Command Post Combat Vehicle), and the VCTM (Mortar Transport Combat Vehicle). These proposals are currently being studied, which could pave the way for future modernizations of the entire family of vehicles.

The TAM 2C-A2 is an emblematic project reflecting the government's commitment to revitalizing national defense. Both the Argentine Army and the Ministry of Defense recognize the strategic importance of this initiative, which symbolizes the country’s industrial capability, with the ambition to consolidate it in the coming years. However, the project will require the necessary political support to reach its full potential, particularly as the TAM approaches its fiftieth anniversary.

The most recent version of the TAM, the TAM 2C-A2, brings improvements compared to its prototype presented eleven years ago. These improvements include an advanced fire control system, night vision capability, better stabilization, enhancements to motor and structural capabilities, and new communication systems.

The program, which aims to modernize 74 units, is the result of collaboration between the Argentine company IMPSA, responsible for machining parts, the Israeli company Elbit Systems, which provides the new systems, and the 602nd Arsenal Battalion "Colonel Ángel Monasterio" located in Boulogne, Buenos Aires. The work plan will extend over seven years, with the final delivery scheduled for 2027.

In addition to the modernization of the TAM 2C-A2, the Argentine Army is considering the acquisition of 8x8 Wheeled Armored Combat Vehicles (VCBR) and the modernization of APC M113 armored transports. These initiatives are part of a broader plan aimed at improving the mobility and protection of troops in the coming decades, significantly transforming the operational capabilities of the Argentine Army.