The Italian Army has received its first upgraded Ariete C2 main battle tank at the Cecchignola complex in Rome, marking the beginning of a 90-unit modernization program. The upgrade enhances mobility, firepower, and command systems, supported by a 10-year logistics package. Powered by a new 1,500-horsepower IVECO V-12 turbo diesel engine, the tank features advanced torsion-bar suspension, a modern C2D/N EVO command suite, software-defined radios, and satellite communications. It also includes day/night sights with thermal imaging, a laser rangefinder, and a ballistic computer for accurate firing while moving. Armament consists of a 120mm smoothbore gun, 7.62mm coaxial, and 12.7mm turret-mounted machine guns.
