First modernised Ariete C2 MBT delivered to Italian Army

The Italian Army has received its first modernised Ariete C2 main battle tank (MBT) in a series-production configuration. The tank was handed over to the Italian Army on 18 July 2025 in Cecchignola, in the south of Rome, by the Iveco – Oto Melara Consortium (CIO), formed between Iveco Defence Vehicles (IDV) and Leonardo.

Italy ordered the modernisation of 90 Ariete MBTs in a 2023 contract worth EUR 848.8 million, with deliveries set to take place between 2025 and 2030. The contract includes an option for a further 35 tanks as well as logistical support for 10 years.

According to IDV, the modernisation of the Ariete includes improvements in terms of mobility, penetrating power and command-and-control (C2) systems.

Following the upgrade, the Ariete’s Iveco Vector 12 diesel engine with electronic injection now delivers 1,100 kW with a torque of over 5,800 Nm. The tank’s ZF LSG-3000 transmission and side reduction gears had to be reinforced to achieve the increased power, while wider tracks reduce the tank’s ground pressure.

While the Ariete’s 120 mm/L44 main gun remains unchanged, the turret drive has been converted to electric. The observation and fire control systems, as well as communication systems, have been modernised to increase the tank’s C2 and combat efficiencies. Information is distributed and displayed on screens, with a digital cockpit providing the driver with information on the engine, driving status and navigation.

The modernised Ariete C2s are intended to close a capability gap until the Italian Army can introduce the Rheinmetall KF51 Panther MBTs ordered at the beginning of 2025. According to current planning, the Panthers are to be delivered in significant numbers from 2030.