Italian Army Receives First Upgraded Ariete C2 Tank
The Italian Army received its first upgraded Ariete main battle tank (MBT), known as the "C2," in a ceremony at the Cecchignola Military Complex in Rome.
The event was attended by senior military leaders and representatives from the Iveco-Oto Melara Consortium (CIO), which is leading the modernization program.
The Ariete C2 is the first of 90 tanks scheduled for extensive technological upgrades in a program designed to extend the operational life of the Italian armored fleet and address evolving battlefield challenges.
This modernization effort includes a ten-year logistics support package and is part of the Army's broader initiative to revitalize its tracked vehicle fleet.
"Today's ceremony represents a crucial stage in a continuous and significant evolution: the delivery of the Ariete C2 tank, a symbol of innovation and collaboration between the Army and the defense industry," said Lieutenant General Carmine Masiello, Chief of Staff of the Italian Army. “This is not just a technical milestone, but also a confirmation of our shared commitment to grow and face the complex challenges of the future together. We are experiencing a phase of maximum synergy and effective dialogue.”
Claudio Catalano, President of the CIO, emphasized the strategic value of this program.
“The Ariete modernization program has enabled the Italian defense industry to rebuild its strategic expertise in the tracked vehicle sector. The investments initiated in recent years and ongoing are resulting in a steady increase in industrial capacity, enabling not only a much-needed technological leap but also a significant extension of the platform’s operational life,” Catalano said.
The Ariete C2 upgrade brings improvements in mobility, lethality, and a digital command and control system. Among the most notable improvements:
The tank’s engine capacity has been increased and equipped with an electronically controlled common rail injection system and an updated supercharger. This results in a 20% increase in power to 1,500 horsepower, with greater torque for superior performance in critical maneuvers.
The gearbox and final drivetrain have been overhauled to handle the additional power, while a new braking system addresses previous supply chain vulnerabilities and enhances vehicle safety.
The original Ariete tracks were replaced with a new model that offers a wider footprint and reduces crew vibration, improving mobility across a variety of terrain.
In terms of firepower, the tank now integrates a fully digital fire control system, similar to the Centauro II, featuring stabilized optronics and advanced TV and infrared cameras for improved targeting and target detection. The turret's hydraulic servos were replaced with an electric drive system for greater reliability and precision.
The Ariete C2 also incorporates modernized communications and situational awareness systems, including the new C2D N EVO Command and Control suite and software-defined radios with satellite connectivity.
Crew survivability has been enhanced through the installation of advanced firefighting and explosion-proof systems. The redesigned crew station features an ergonomic layout and multifunction displays, while a new digital pilot panel integrates navigation and command interfaces.
The Italian Army views this upgraded tank as a vital part of its broader deterrence strategy and a bridge to future armored capabilities. The program is expected to ensure a smooth transition between legacy systems and the next-generation platforms anticipated in the coming years.
Defense officials emphasized that the debut of the Ariete C2 strengthens Italy's ability to fulfill its NATO commitments and maintain a credible armored force amid an increasingly uncertain security environment.
Italy plans to complete delivery of all 90 upgraded tanks within the next few years.
