On several occasions, Zona Militar has prospectively analyzed the necessary updates for the Argentine Army’s TAM family combat vehicles. With the VC TAM as the cornerstone, the project which began over four decades ago, remains one of the most significant examples of how a program enabled a true modernization of the army’s armored units at that time through a wide range of vehicles. Besides the VC TAM, the family includes the VCTP, VCTM, VCPC, and associated developments like the VCA Palmaria. However, like the VC TAM, these also require updates to their systems due to obsolescence and the passage of time. Consequently, through sources consulted by Zona Militar, within the TAM 2C-2A modernization program, the Argentine Army is evaluating preliminary proposals for the update of some of its TAM VCTP and VCTM, used for personnel transport and fire support in infantry operations.
As of today, as indicated in the latest Report No. 139 from the Chief of the Cabinet of Ministers to the Senate of the National Congress, the TAM 2C-A2 Modernization Program is progressing with the completion of two units of the new version, while work continues on the update of three additional units within the pre-series batch. This work involves personnel from the Argentine Army, specifically from the 602nd Arsenal Battalion and the Army’s Directorate of Research and Development, the local firm IMPSA for the machining of the turrets, and the Israeli company Elbit Systems as the supplier of update kits and technical assistance, to briefly mention the involvement of these actors.
However, while the TAM 2C-A2 Program progresses, the Argentine Army has also explored options to leverage the acquired knowledge and capabilities for the future update of armored combat vehicles, aiming to apply them to parts of the TAM family. Thus, as part of an Israeli proposal, the authorities are evaluating the possibility of updating the VCTP (Armored Personnel Carrier) and VCTM (Armored Mortar Carrier) vehicles.
The goal, taking advantage of the commonality of components and characteristics of the TAM family, would be to equip these combat vehicles with the capabilities present in the VC TAM 2C-A2. Although no further details were provided, similar to the tanks, the aim would be to equip the VCTP and VCTM with new vision equipment, communication equipment, and some protective measures, such as E-LAWS laser warning systems, electric turret operation, and new fire suppression systems, to name a few examples. It is also presumed that, like the TAMs selected for modernization, the combat vehicles could undergo a comprehensive overhaul and refurbishment of the hull, with this work being carried out by Argentine Army personnel.
As of today, the presented proposal is under analysis, awaiting further feasibility studies to maximize the possibilities that, more than forty years after its inception and incorporation, the Medium Argentine Tank family can continue to offer to the Argentine Army.
*Photographs used for illustration purposes.
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