In order to advance with the modernization program of the TAM armored vehicles, the Argentine Army’s Arsenal Directorate has initiated a new bidding process for the technological update of the driver’s dashboard assembly of the TAM 2C-A2 Combat Vehicle. According to the specifications outlined in the documents, the bidding includes the modernization of the instrument panel, with the addition of a data processor with digital display, replacing the system of indicator lights for faults, including all switches and analog instruments.
Additionally, the new assembly will include the replacement of all electronic boards (RA module and engine shutdown module) with a programmable logic controller (PLC). This system must meet specifications suitable for a combat vehicle, equipped with IP-65 or higher protection, aimed at reducing fault detection time.
In addition to the system of light alarms indicating the status of operation of different powertrain peripherals, it must include a self-check of all instruments that allows the detection of faults in warning lights, as well as the ability to store data obtained from the engine, including number of starts, engine usage time, and number of detected alarms.
This modification is part of the TAM 2C Program, which currently involves the upgrade of 74 units to the new standard, including the installation of new equipment such as the Elbit E-LAWS (Elbit Systems’ Laser Warning System) laser alert systems, which replaced the TDS (Threat Detection System), and new fire control systems and stabilized panoramic sights COAPS-L for the gunner.
Other modifications introduced with the TAM 2C-A2 include a new Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) and pannels. It is worth mentioning that these latter modifications, along with the work on the turret and the fittings, are carried out by the Argentine company IMPSA.
According to Report No. 139 from the Office of the Chief of Cabinet of Ministers to the National Congress, regarding the progress of the TAM 2C-A2 project, it was stated: “To date, the product engineering stage has been completely concluded and work is underway on process engineering and the pre-series stage and tests, which began once the prototype was evaluated for its technical-operational performance. Currently, two tanks have been completed and evaluated, with the forecast to add three tanks in the coming months. It is worth noting that this project began in 2010 and in the last 13 years, only 2 completed vehicles had been delivered. This year, more combat vehicles will be received than those delivered since the beginning of the project.”
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