Modernized M60 Main Battle Tanks Enter Into Service with Iranian Army.

On September 1, 2024, the Information Agency of the Islamic Republic of Iran (IRNA) announced the official unveiling of a modernized version of the American M60A1 tank, designated "Soleiman-402," alongside a new indigenous multi-layered anti-aircraft defense system. The event took place at the Shahid Zarharan Center of the Army Ground Force and was attended by Major General Abdul Rahim Mousavi, the Chief Commander of the Iranian Army.
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Iran currently maintains a fleet of approximately 150 M60A1 tanks, which were acquired during the Shah's era as part of a broader military modernization program that included various Western equipment, such as British Chieftain tanks. (Picture source: IRNA)

Brigadier General Heydari, Commander of the Army Ground Forces, confirmed that all M60 tanks within the Iranian Army's inventory would be upgraded to the Soleiman-402 standard. Iran currently maintains a fleet of approximately 150 M60A1 tanks, which were acquired during the Shah's era as part of a broader military modernization program that included various Western equipment, such as British Chieftain tanks. Following the 1979 revolution, modernization efforts were interrupted, leading to a focus on maintaining and upgrading older equipment, such as the M60, to support military readiness.

The modernization of the M60 tanks has been carried out by the Shahid Zarharan Center for Repair and Modernization of Ground Forces Equipment. The Soleiman-402 includes several upgrades intended to enhance its performance and survivability on the battlefield. These modifications feature new add-on armor, dynamic protection elements, and a modern communication system. The tank is fitted with Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA) on the turret front to provide additional protection against direct hits. Composite armor plates or large ERA bricks are also visible on the upper and lower hull, aimed at reinforcing the tank's frontal defenses.

The Soleiman-402 is also outfitted with an electro-optical countermeasure system, similar to the Russian-made Shtora jammers found on T-72S tanks. These jammers are utilized to interfere with the guidance systems of incoming missiles, adding a layer of defense to the tank.  (Picture source: IRNA)

A new Remote Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS) has been installed on the tank's turret, equipped with a machine gun, a thermal sighting system, and a meteorological sensor. These components are designed to improve targeting accuracy under different environmental conditions. The Soleiman-402 is also outfitted with an electro-optical countermeasure system, similar to the Russian-made Shtora jammers found on T-72S tanks. These jammers are utilized to interfere with the guidance systems of incoming missiles, adding a layer of defense to the tank. The Soleiman-402, however, uses a larger version of these jamming devices, which may be less advanced compared to the more compact systems installed on Iran's Karrar tank.

Differences between the displayed prototypes suggest that various configurations are currently being evaluated. For instance, one prototype featured a distinct gun sleeve that was not present on another, which may indicate adjustments in armor design or armament. Additional features of the Soleiman-402 include laser radiation detection sensors, curtain searchlights, and an updated fire control system to enhance situational awareness.

A new Remote Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS) has been installed on the tank's turret, equipped with a machine gun, a thermal sighting system, and a meteorological sensor. (Picture source: IRNA)