The Argentine Army held a presentation ceremony for the first five tanks modernized to the TAM 2C-A2 standard at the 602nd Arsenal Battalion “Colonel Ángel Monasterio” in Boulogne, Buenos Aires. The event was attended by the Minister of Defense, Luis Petri, the Chief of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the Armed Forces, Brigadier General Isaac, and the Chief of the Army, who delivered speeches highlighting the importance of this advancement for the Armed Forces.
The presentation of these tanks is part of an extended modernization program of the Argentine Army, aiming to update and enhance its operational capabilities related to its armored component. These five tanks, part of the first series, were presented alongside the preseries TAM2C and the TAM IP, showcasing the progress and continuity of a project that was ensured to continue following the acquisition of supplies at the end of last year.
During the visit to the maintenance and recovery lines for armored vehicles, several TAM units were observed in various stages of the modernization process. Each of the completed tanks has been equipped with the new generation Fire Control System (FCS), which, supported by its Turret and Cannon Stabilization System, significantly improves the accuracy of the first shot. Additionally, the COAPS-L system installed for both the gunner and the tank commander provides all-weather vision functions.
Moreover, the TAM 2C-A2 is equipped with an APU system installed at the rear of its hull, allowing for silent surveillance. The turret integrates four TDS (Threat Detection System) units that detect laser emissions from weapon systems, particularly anti-tank missiles (ATGM). New smoke grenade launchers, an Automatic Fire Detection and Suppression System (AFDSS), and updated communication and command and control systems have also been installed.
The modernization of the TAM 2C-A2 is crucial for the Argentine Army: it not only extends the service life of these vehicles but also enhances their operational capability to meet modern requirements.
At today’s ceremony, both Minister of Defense Luis Petri and the attending high-ranking military officials emphasized the significance of this modernization, which is consolidated as one of the force’s flagship projects, aiming to be sustained over time. The project is expected to be completed by 2026-2027, or in the final years of the current administration.
However, with the upcoming privatization of IMPSA, a company involved in an essential stage of the project, such as the machining of hulls and turrets, the impact of this action on the modernization process remains unknown. It is yet to be seen whether the project will need to be readjusted with new partners or if the U.S. company acquiring the share package will continue with the project’s course, aiming to equip the Argentine Army with 74 modernized units.
*Coverage in progress.
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